Method, system and apparatus for dispensing products for a personal care service, instructing on providing a personal care treatment service, and selecting a personal care service

ABSTRACT

A method, system and apparatus for delivery of custom blended dispensing custom blended personal care beauty products for a beauty service, wherein one or more components of a beauty product are stored where they may be supplied as needed to a dispenser, and where a control mechanism regulates the dosage of beauty components to provide a desired selected personal care beauty product with the characteristics selected. A selection screen display provides an image of a person and the person&#39;s hair that may be manipulated to simulate modifications that may include cut or styling and color or other effects. The selections are processed and stored and a formula is generated and communicating to a dispensing device to deliver the product components to produce the formula.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional application Ser.No. 61/847,214, filed on Jul. 17, 2013, the complete contents of whichare herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to methods, systems and apparatus for dispensingproducts for a personal care, and more particularly to a method, systemand apparatus, for facilitating the dispensing of personal careproducts, such as a beauty product, such as, for example, a haircolorant, where the hair colorant components are delivered in a dosageto provide a resultant hair colorant product having the desiredcharacteristics. The invention also may be configured to dispenseshampoo, conditioner, skin and scalp treatments, and other beauty andpersonal care products.

2. Brief Description of the Related Art

Beauty treatments often involve the use of products to enhance, repairor rejuvenate the skin, hair or body of an individual to improve orchange the appearance or characteristic of the individual. One exampleof a beauty treatment involves hair coloring. Hair coloring compositionsare used for coloring human hair. They may be applied by individuals inthe home, or professionally in salons and studios. The purpose of haircoloring is to bring about a particular look with the color, which, forsome individuals, may involve returning graying hair to its originalcolor, and, for others, may involve altering the individual's hair colorby changing it to a different color (which may be for reasons that theindividual desires, such as, for example, a fashion, trend or style).

Hair coloring generally is distributed in tubes and bottles. In somecases, the components of a hair colorant may need to be separatelyprovided in order to prolong their useful life, or because of certainadverse chemical reactions that may take place, if stored together. Thecolorist often utilizes colorant from one or more tubes. In many cases,the colorant or coloring chemicals are wasted, as some of the chemicalremains in the tube. Generally, the tubes are supplied containing 2 oz.of colorant. In addition, the colorist or stylist carrying out thecoloring of an individual's hair may be required to mix colors, which insome cases, may require a small amount of one particular color. Often,where a small amount of coloring compound is used, the remainder of thecoloring compound in the tube must be disposed of, leading to waste bothof chemicals as well as the container that held the coloring andpackaging. In addition, mixing colors to arrive at a desired colorinvolves time in measuring and matching the colorant components toarrive at the desired color.

The tubes for hair coloring are usually hand-squeezed, from the bottom.Most hair-coloring jobs require an admixture of colors, and hence mixingof dyes from different tubes. The hair colors or dyes must be mixed witha developer, and, in some cases a bleach may be added. Once the dyes aresqueezed from the tubes the dyes as well as developer and bleach thatalso may have been added are mixed together, which is conventionallyperformed by hand. One prior attempt to automate removal of the dyesfrom their tubes is disclosed in US Patent Application no. 2009/0161481,which provides rollers that receive the end of the tube, compress ittherebetween, and squeeze the dye therefrom. The roller motor may becontrolled to provide a desired amount of rotation or squeezing. The'481 application also discloses a separate agitator that is used to mixthe dyes that have been squeezed from the tube, or alternatively, aseparate mixing station.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,758,347 B2 discloses a system for simulating a resultingcustom hair color imparted to hair by a custom hair coloring compositionformulated from a mixture of two different hair color preparations witha computer system for generating a visual image representative of alikely resulting custom hair color.

EP 1 374 720 discloses a method for selecting a desired resulting customhair color imparted to hair by a hair dye product. A user may use atouch screen to select a hair coloring product (such as a product on astore shelf) and the user may enter information about the product orscan the bar code of the product to enter the information. The screenmay display a message prompting the user to input information relatingto the type of coloration desired (grey coverage, root coverage orhighlight), and/or information relating to the initial condition of thehair, apart from its initial color (e.g., previously colored, nevercolored and/or damaged). The '720 patent document discloses that theinformation may be later used by a micro-processing system to predictthe resulting color of the coloration and/or predict a suitable productfor the type of coloration desired. The '720 patent document furtherdiscloses displaying visual images on a computer screen for comparison.The '720 patent further discloses a loyalty card, smart card (RFI) chipand CD Disk as a marketing tool that may be used with its device toallow the consumers to earn points, discounts or coupons.

EP 0 443 741 A discloses an apparatus and a method to formulate a custommixed cosmetic product in response to specific input criteria disclosedto be combinations of hair damage criteria, hair porosity criteria, andhair diameter criteria. The '741 patent document discloses formulatingand dispensing a custom mixed cosmetic hair treatment product at thepoint of sale in response to input criteria. Containers for storingcosmetically functional mixtures that are adapted to interact whenproper amounts are mixed to form a cosmetic hair treatment product aredisclosed. Mating male and female members with a different shape areprovided as a locking means for connecting a container to a reservoir toensure that the proper mixture is located in the proper containerposition.

EP 1 817 976 discloses a method that involves inputting into a computersystem an initial hair color of the hair, a first shade component amountfrom a defined collection; a second color shade component amount fromthe collection, and one or more amounts of one or more additional colorshade components from the defined collection. The '976 patent documentsdiscloses using a computer to predict a likely resulting custom haircolor based on the inputted initial hair color of the hair and theinputted component amounts and to generate a visual image thatrepresents the likely color to simulate the hair.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide an automated system,method and apparatus for dispensing chemicals and treatments in thebeauty industry.

According to one embodiment, it is an object to accomplish the aboveobjects by dispensing hair colorant.

According to another embodiment, it is an object to accomplish the aboveobjects by dispensing prescriptive home care products like shampoos,conditioners and treatments.

According to a preferred embodiment, the method, system and apparatusare configured to dose out an appropriate amount of a desired productthat may be used by a technician who is providing a service to a clientor customer.

Another object is to provide a system, method and apparatus fordelivering a component used in a beauty industry that is premixed toprovide a desired treatment characteristic. For example, in the casewhere the component is a hair colorant, the desired characteristic maybe a particular color. The desired characteristic also may include thetype of colorant, such as, permanent or temporary colorant.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method, system andapparatus that reduces or eliminates the need for multiple packagingassociated with the dispensable or consumable components.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method, system andapparatus that reduces or eliminates waste of treatment chemicals, inparticular hair coloring products.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method, system andapparatus that improves consistency in connection with the delivery of atreatment component.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method, system andapparatus that improves accuracy in connection with the delivery of atreatment component that is dispensed for use in forming the beautyproduct.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method, system andapparatus that reduces the need for underused inventory of treatmentcomponents.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method, system andapparatus that promotes improved reporting of time management.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method, system andapparatus that provides a repeatable result for a customer based on thecustomer's characteristics, desires, or previous experiences in relationto a treatment component.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system, method anddevice that allows an individual that desires to receive a beautytreatment, such as, for example, a hair coloring, cut or styling, to usea captured image of the individual and manipulate that image throughselection options to provide desired options appearing on theindividual's image. For example, the image of the individual's own hairis used to apply the treatment options, and the image is transformed bysoftware containing instructions corresponding to the selected treatmentto render the image with the appearance of the selected treatmentapplied. The individual may then save treatment sets applied, and selectand preview additional treatments, and may then compare, save and changethe treatment sets saved.

Another object is to provide a method, system and device that providesinstructions on the application of a beauty treatment. For example,according to one embodiment, where the beauty treatment involvestransforming a hair by cutting, styling, conditioning, coloring or othertreatment application, the desired result is selected from selectionoptions on a touch screen or other input mechanism, and a screendisplays the desired effect. The image on the screen may be selected asthe result desired, and, instructions may be provided in a visualgraphic representation on steps to obtain the desired result. Theinstructions may be globally provided through a network so that a resultmay be obtained at one location, and the result selected at anotherlocation may be replicated through the instructional teaching. Accordingto one embodiment, a system for instructing on the cutting, styling andcoloring of hair may be carried out by capturing a real-time image of anindividual who is to receive a haircut, color or style, and processingthe image of the individual to locate the individual's hair; and thenutilizing overlays to provide graphic representations for display of theprocedures, which may involve suggesting through an overlay thatcontains at least one graphic of a step to be carried out on the hair ofthe individual, and then providing graphics of each subsequent step.According to preferred embodiments, as described herein, the procedurepreferably involves a filtered translucent overlay that is utilized togenerate the image for display.

It is another object of the invention to provide a system, method andapparatus for providing hair care and treatment products to consumersbased on a distribution system that delivers customized hair products tothe consumer.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a system, method andapparatus that generates a relationship building communications betweena consumer and the marketer, salon, distributor and/or manufacturer ofthe hair product.

It is another object of the invention to provide means for monitoringthe use of hair care products, including monitoring use in connectionwith replenishment or reordering of product or for determining trendsand/or for use in connection with customizing marketing.

It is another object of the invention to provide a system, method andapparatus for determining global and local trends and preferences,events, celebrity popularity as they emerge in conjunction withmarketing of beauty products and services, including hair care and salonservices.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a system, apparatusand method that provides a consumer with the ability to obtain for theperson's own personal use, the same hair product that is a speciallyformulated hair product made available to a consumer that is the same asthe consumer's product that is specially formulated and applied at theconsumer's salon.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a computerimplemented system that displays the hair of an individual on a displayscreen, and which permits a representation of hair treatment, includingstages of a haircut to be done by manipulating the image presented onthe screen. It is a further object to provide a responsiverepresentation on a display screen that permits a haircut to berepresented on an individual and which allows the cut to be displayed bysimulating the cut as if the stylist was using a tool, such as scissorson the person's actual hair. A depiction of a representative cut orstyling is provided on the display and is carried out by allowing themanipulation of the user's depicted hair to remove as much or as littlehair as desired, and in locations desired, and to have the imagedepicted on the display represent the progression of a style or haircutbeing carried out on the person's hair depicted on the display, so thatthe depiction is carried out prior to manipulation of the persons'physical hair.

It is a further object of the invention to distribute and formulatecustom beauty products in addition to hair related products.

A further object is to provide an apparatus that may be configured todispense waving solutions, shampoos, conditioners, lotions and creams,each of which may be customized with components selected or desired forthe user or a particular designated client.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method, system anddevice that uses consumable components, where the container, such as abag, containing a component, and a tube or line is supplied as acomponent unit. It is a further object to supply the container bag, lineand nozzle as a unit as a contained unit that is installable on thedevice and on the pumping mechanism, and from which the contents of theunit (container bag, line and, optionally, the nozzle) may remain in asealed condition for delivery to the dispenser location.

It is another object of the invention to provide a system, method anddevice in which the product components to be dispensed are provided incontainers (and, in some embodiments, lines and nozzles that areconnected thereto) that may be recycled and/or recharged with freshcomponent when the initial component has been exhausted. The inventionpreferably is designed to be environmentally beneficial as in additionto embodiments providing recyclable and/or rechargeable containers, thecontainers may replace the small tubes that currently are used todispense hair colorant. For example, where a prior art tube contains 2oz. of a hair dye colorant, the tube and the box in which it iscontained are discarded as waste after use (albeit, if the tube ispackaged in a cardboard box, the cardboard has potential for recycling).Nonetheless, these tubes are often discarded even when existing colorantremains within the tube. The present invention provides containers(which in some embodiments may hold 1 L of a component) that holdseveral time more than the tubes, and from which an exacting amount ofcomponent may be dispensed. According to preferred embodiments of themethod, system and device, the invention produces considerably lesslandfill waste than traditional component packaging and delivery (e.g.,tubes).

It is a further object of the invention to provide a device, system andmethod, where a container containing a component may be placed anywhereon the device (e.g., at any designated location or slot, and to bedelivered by any pump), and the component will be automaticallyrecognized by the device. The recognition feature provides for deliveryof the proper components regardless of whether the component is placedin a designated or non-designated slot on the device. The softwarepreferably includes instructions to deliver the dosage of propercomponent by operating the corresponding pump based on the reading andidentification of the component location and its correspondence with aparticular pump.

Although the above objects have been discussed as features of theinvention, one or more of these objects may be accomplished with one ormore other of the objects according to preferred and alternateembodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a first embodiment of a dispensingdevice according to my invention, showing a bank of canisters arrangedin a location remote from the dispensing unit, and showing a pluralityof lines for delivering the components from the dispensing canisters,the lines being shown, but in an installation, may remain hidden in awall, cabinet or other structure.

FIG. 2 is a separate view of the dispensing nozzles, looking up from thecontainer toward the dispensing nozzles.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a dispensing device according to asecond embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3A is a front elevation view of the device of FIG. 3 depicted withan alternate mounting component for the nozzles.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged front elevation view showing a view of a containerinstalled on the dispensing device of FIG. 3.

FIG. 4A is an enlarged view of an alternate embodiment of a containerconfigured as a bag in a box casing, where the container is installed ona shelf of the dispensing device, which is shown having an alternateframe construction.

FIG. 5 is a partial view of a container according to a preferredembodiment shown configured as a bag, and shown separately from theother components of the dispensing device.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view looking at the left side of the dispensingdevice and showing a portion of the dispensing device of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the dispensing area of thedispensing device of FIG. 3, showing the dispensing nozzles.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a system forproviding customized hair treatment solutions.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a preferred arrangement of thearchitecture for the system for providing customized hair treatmentsolutions, shown to incorporate individual client/users, salons andsalon network operations.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting a language selection screen.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display depicting a userprofile entry display, through which a user may enter information.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary screen display for the application or appdepicting a scalp condition screen and showing an image of a healthyscalp and hair of a person of similar age, gender and ethnic backgroundand a person's actual scalp and hair.

FIG. 13 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting a user photo upload screen.

FIG. 14 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting a green screen showing the greenbackground.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting a green screen showing the client's hairdepicted apart from the client's face and body, and shown on a greenbackground.

FIG. 16 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting a shape modification screen with a shapemodification option.

FIG. 17 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting a color selection screen.

FIG. 18 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting tools for applying a representation of acut process to the hair of the person depicted.

FIG. 19 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting an example of a representation of a cutprocess applied to the hair of the person depicted.

FIG. 20 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting an example of a representation of optionsand techniques for application to the hair of a person depicted in thescreen.

FIG. 21 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting an example of a representation of appliedoptions and effects to the depiction of the client's hair, and providingselection options from which to select.

FIG. 22 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting an example of a representation of atransfer or upload screen to upload the selection to the salon networkor server.

FIG. 23 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting an example of a representation of analert, which is illustrated as a low product indication alert.

FIG. 24 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting an example of a representation of apurchase screen showing options to book an appointment (at a salon).

FIG. 25 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting an example of a representation of anappointment booking screen.

FIG. 26 is an exemplary embodiment of a screen display for a smartphonethat may be used to operate the application.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a dispensingdevice according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A system, method and devices are provided for facilitating theapplication of a beauty treatment. According to a preferred embodiment,the system, method and devices facilitate an application of a beautytreatment that may be provided at a number of different locations in auniform manner. According to preferred embodiments, a global networkconnects the devices that may be used to implement the methods andfacilitate the beauty treatment. A database may be used to storeinformation about particular beauty treatments, their applications andcustomizations, as well as the selection of a treatment andimplementation of the treatment to correspond with a selected treatment.According to embodiments of the invention an individual may make aselection of a particular type of look that the individual desires.According to a preferred embodiment, the beauty treatment may be a hairtreatment, which may be a haircut, style, color or any combinations ofthe aforementioned or other treatments to alter or enhance theappearance of an individual's hair. The devices also may be referred toherein as apparatus.

According to some embodiments, an individual may make selections from aselection menu that is used to populate a display that the individualviews. The display preferably also has a capability of uploading animage of the individual, or optionally or in addition thereto, mayinclude a camera which is configured with the ability to capture animage of the individual. According to one embodiment, a capturingmechanism may include a camera and a computing device for electronicallystoring an image taken with said camera. The capturing mechanism mayalso include software with instructions for storing the image to astorage location (e.g., hard drive, or server component or cloud) aswell as a tool (such as software) to separate the image of the person'shair to be manipulated separately from other portions of the image, suchas, for example, the person's face, background, person's body. Theprofile image of the individual that is captured may then be used by theindividual or technician who is to apply the treatment, or both. Theuser then makes selections which are applied to the image of theindividual to provide a depiction or representation of the individualwith the selected treatment applied. According to preferred embodiments,the image of the individual is used and is manipulated to create thedesired treatment effect by using the individual's image data andmanipulating the user's image data (which may be pixels or othercomponents of the image data) to correspond with the treatment selected.For example, the texture of an individual's hair may be altered by theindividual selecting from a menu a desired hair texture. The desiredhair texture is then applied to the image of the individual. Softwareprogrammed with instructions to manipulate the image data is provided.The software is configured to manipulate the image data when aninstruction is received. The software may reside on a device being usedby a user, such as, for example, a tablet or PDA, or may reside on acentral server linked for association with the user device through anetwork, such as, for example, a local network or Internet. According toone example, the user may select from a menu of hair colors or otherhair effects. For example, the user selecting the hair color may thenhave that color applied to the image to render that individual's hairwith the selected color appearing in the image. According to oneembodiment, the individual may be presented with a menu that permits themovement or styling of the individual's hair so that a desired shapingof the individual's hair on the displayed image of the individual may becustomized. According to one embodiment, the device on which the imageis displayed may include a touch screen, and the image is displayed in amanner that permits the individual to move the hair (e.g., by movingone's fingers over the touch screen) as if the individual were actuallymoving the hair. Other selections enable the individual to shorten orremove hair, apply a color to all or parts of the hair or select andapply other treatments to the hair. In some cases, the individual may bepresented with selection options from which to choose (for example, adiscrete number of choices), while in other instances, the individualmay make a selection of unlimited options (e.g., the moving of thehair). Although the examples are described with an individual making theselections, alternately, a technician may make the selections or mayassist the individual in making or arriving at the selections, andultimate effect desired.

According to one embodiment, the capturing mechanism is employed tocapture an image of an individual whose hair is to be altered, such as,an individual who is to receive a haircut. An image is electronicallystored with the capturing mechanism, the image including theindividual's face and the individual's hair. In this embodiment, theimage portion that includes the individual's hair is stored as aseparate image. This may be done by processing the stored image of theindividual to locate the individual's hair. The depiction of a haircuton the display is generated for the user as well as the stylist to see(e.g., the individual and stylist that is to provide the treatment).According to one embodiment, instructions are provided (e.g., to thesalon stylist) suggesting through an overlay that contains at least onegraphic, a step to be carried out on the hair of the individual totransform the hair of the individual on that image. Preferably, the hairimage is manipulated on the display screen to correspond with theproposed or selected transformation to be carried out on theindividual's hair by a filtered translucent overlay that retains theimage of the individual's hair and differentiates the hair portion (inthe displayed image) to which the manipulation has been applied. Theinstruction preferably depicts on the image of the person's hair, apreferred way to achieve a result and the result. The instructionspreferably are provided through a series of graphic depictions on adisplay which correspond to depicted steps for transforming the hair ofthe individual based on a transformed image of the individual's hairappearing on the display. The application may provide teaching to salonpersonnel regarding how to obtain a particular treatment, effect, styleor cut to a person, through depictions of graphic representations of theperson's hair on an electronic display and generation of progressivesteps depicting the changes to the hair with the steps of the treatment.

According to preferred embodiments, a database is provided and ispopulated with products that correspond with the selections made by theindividual. For example, if the individual selected a straight hair,then a conditioning product that may be suitable for providing thateffect is associated with the individual selection data. Alternately, ifthere are a number of products that may provide the desired effect, thenoptions may be provided to be associated with the individual's selectiondata. Those options may be stored with the selections of the individual,including, for example, a record in a data file that identifies theindividual by name, or other unique identifier, but may be stored in amanner that permits the product data to be regulated to whom it may beavailable for access. For example, according to one embodiment, theproduct data is available to a technician that is to apply thetreatment. The product information may be identified by brand, type,name or a code.

Another object of the invention is to deliver a beauty treatment, suchas, for example, a hair treatment component, which may be provided in aconsistent manner to deliver a uniform product. The invention improvesthe ability to deliver and provide a treatment, such as, for example, ahair color, which is consistent from time to time, as well as fromlocation to location. A delivery apparatus is implemented to deliver aconsistent amount, including dosages, of colorants to provide a uniformcolor. The data may be stored, and delivery apparatus units, which maybe in locations remote from each other, may provide a consistenttreatment product delivery by utilizing the data stored for a particularindividual in a database. The database may be accessible through aglobal network (such as the Internet), so that an individual's file,including the treatment products, the dosages constituting the treatmentproducts, style and cut, and other information or preferences may beavailable to a technician or stylist at another location. According to apreferred embodiment, a plurality of locations are designated and adelivery apparatus may be located at each location. The location, forexample, may be a salon. The salons may be designated salons on anetwork, or that otherwise share data relating to treatment components.

According to a preferred embodiment, a system, method and apparatus areprovided to facilitate the delivery of a treatment component used forcarrying out a beauty service. According to preferred embodiments, thesystems and apparatus are configured to formulate and dose outappropriate amounts of desired products to a technician for a selectedbeauty service. The beauty service, for example, may be a facial, skinor other body treatment, a hair treatment, or other treatment in which abeauty component is required to be used or applied to the skin or hairof an individual. According to a preferred embodiment, the beautytreatment involves a hair treatment and the application of a hairtreatment product to the hair of a person. For example, the hairtreatment may involve the coloring of the hair of an individual with ahair coloring product.

According to one embodiment, a device is provided for dispensing thebeauty component. For example, according to a preferred embodiment,where the beauty service involves hair coloring, the beauty componenthair colorant is dispensed from a dispenser of the device to provide thetechnician with a suitable color characteristic that the individual hasrequested, or that the technician desires to use for that individual.

According to a first embodiment, a device 10 is shown in FIG. 1,including a control mechanism 11 with a selection component. The controlmechanism 11 is represented schematically, and, in its simplest form,may include a computer, with an input means, such as a keyboard, mouse,pointer, touch screen or combination thereof, a storage component, suchas a hard drive for storing data, and display for displaying informationsuch as a monitor or the touch screen 13. According to the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 1, the device 10 has a touch screen 13 and thecomputing components of the control mechanism 11 may be housed withinthe housing 12 of the device 10. Other components of a computer may beused in association with the device 10, including networking hardware topermit the device 10 to communicate with other devices so as to share,store and/or save information. Customer information may be stored in thedevice 10 (or in an associated data storage component that is linkedwith or accessible to the device 10). A hard drive or other data storagemedium may be provided. The data storage component preferably holds adatabase into which customer information may be recorded and stored, anda media that is capable of storing the information (e.g., a hard driveor other storage component). According to one embodiment, a customerrecord is created, and a customer record is populated with information.For example, the customer hair type and hair texture information may beentered, saved and stored for that customer. The technician also mayselect from a menu a desired result for the customer. The menu mayprovide selection options for formula, color and other options. The menumay be generated on a touch screen 13 and the computer may be programmedwith software containing instructions to display the associatedselection options for input requests that are to be received as well asfor displaying information such as the customer name, other customerinformation, and information relating to the products that the device 10is to dispense. For example, in the event that the customer makes afirst visit, or for the first time that a customer's information isrecorded, the selection option for the customer may be made by thetechnician (or other individual operating the device 10), and may beentered and stored. In the event where the customer already has acustomer record associated with the customer, the customer record may beused, and upon entry or access of the customer record, the device 10 mayoffer suggested formula options to the technician,

When the technician has selected the desired formula and dosage, whichmay include a color option for the desired color in the case of a haircolorant, the technician places a container 100 at the dispensing area14 of the device 10. Preferably, the device 10 includes a sensor 15 andindicator circuit that detects that a container 100 is in position toreceive a component from the device 10. When the selections have beenconfirmed by the technician, and the container position is confirmed bythe sensing circuit, then the device 10 dispenses the desired componentor components into the container 100 based on the technician selections.

Once the components have been dispensed into the container 100, thetechnician may then mix the components together (as needed). A mixingoption optionally may be provided to provide a mixing chamber orcontainer that permits the components being dispensed by the device 10also to be mixed.

The method may be carried out, according to one exemplary embodiment bythe following steps:

the technician utilizes a touch screen to access formula screen wheredosing options are entered or selected;

the technician chooses formula and dose;

an indicator light alerts technician “A” that product for client “B” isnow ready to be dispensed and that dose is available at dispensingpoint;

a dispensing container is placed at point of delivery;

a sensor knows that container is in place;

the product is dispensed into the appropriate container;

-   -   the technician now blends the doses together for application.

The device 10 may be constructed utilizing a control mechanism fordispensing the components. The control mechanism, according to oneembodiment, may include dispensing nozzles for dosing and/or dispensingpumps that transport the component from a storage location to bedelivered from the dispensing nozzles to the dispensing container 100. Acanister 101, which may be one of a plurality of canisters 101 a, 101 b,101 c and others (101 n, 101 n ₊₁), may be used to store the respectivebeauty components. The canisters may be purchased and delivered toprovide components that correspond with the formulations that thesoftware and display mechanism features rely on to obtain the desiredeffects or treatment. For example, in the case of a hair colorantcomponent, the canister 101 may contain a particular colorant componentthat is stored within the canister 101 and dispensed from the canister101 with the device 10 as required. The canister 101 may be part of anarray 20 of canisters 101 a, 101 b, 101 c and others (101 n, 101 n ₊₁),where each canister of the array 20 includes a component that may bedispensed from the canister as called for by the device 10. (Forexample, the array 20 shown in FIG. 1 may be made up of up to 64canisters.) The amount of component from each canister is determined bythe programs used in connection with the device 10, which regulate thedosage and type of component that is to be delivered to the container100. The components delivered from the canisters 101 to the container100 preferably are based on the selections of the technician. Thecanisters 101, 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, and so on, may be linked to thedevice 10 with one or more feed lines 102. For example, according tosome embodiments, a single canister, such as that 101, may be storedcentral to a plurality of devices 10 and may be used to supply acomponent to more than one device 10. According to alternateembodiments, each device 10 may have associated with it one canister (orset of canisters) for each separate beauty component to be delivered.According to one embodiment, a plurality of pumps are provided, and eachpump preferably is associated with a feed line 102 that is connected toa canister 101, so that the pump may be operated to move a desiredquantity of the component from the canister 101 in which it is stored,into a dispensing cup or container 100. The pumps, although not shown,preferably, may be disposed in the housing 12 of the device 10. One ormore valves (also not shown) may be placed in association with the feedline 102 flow path to regulate the flow through the feed line 102. Thevalve may be used to selectively close flow, for example, when changingcanisters 101 or when cleaning the device 10 or pumps.

The device 10 preferably includes a control mechanism, which, asdiscussed herein, may include software that is programmed withinstructions to control the operation of the pumps of the device 10 toregulate the type and amount of the component to be delivered to thecontainer 100. In addition control valves may be operated with softwarethat is programmed with instructions for opening and/or closing valvesto regulate from which canister 101 the component is or components areto be delivered.

The device 10 also may be programmed to accept inputs from operators ofthe system, and access may be regulated with pass codes and identitiesso that the users of the system and their selections may be saved andaccessed, if needed. The device 10 may include one or more programmablelogic controllers that may be used in connection with the software toprovide data signals to the pumps and valves, or other operablecomponents, in association with the desired component dosage based onthe inputs from a technician or user. An operator pass code may be used,and a time stamped dosage dispensed from the device 10 into thecontainer 101 may be recorded and stored in a data file (e.g., a database).

The data base may be stored or may be connected to a live data feedthrough the Internet, or other network, and recommended complementaryproducts selections may be provided when a user or technician using thedevice 10 logs on, or uses the device 10.

According to one embodiment, the device 10 includes a low inventorylevel alerting feature, which may be an alarm, display, page, or othervisual or audible communication, that signals to the user that acomponent, such as a canister 101, is in need of being replaced, or isrunning low. The system also may track the inventory of canisterspurchased and or shipped by the user, lessee, or owner of the device 10location, and may monitor dispensings of components from canisters 101to track the component level and the need for replenishment. This may bedone through updates pushed or pulled from the device 10, such as,through a live connection through a network with the canister supplier.

According to one embodiment, operators may operate a control panel whichmay have a programmable logic controller in association therewith, toinclude the following information:

Operator Pass code Time stamped dose Low inventory level alarmIn addition, the controller may be programmed or linked with a server ordatabase to generate recommended complimentary products selections inview of the product dispensed.

As shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of dispensing nozzles 19 may be providedto dispense the components from the canisters 101, 101 a, 101 b, 101 c,and so on, into the container 100. The dispensing nozzles 19 may bemounted on the frame of the device 10. Dispensing sensors may beprovided to ensure the container 100 is in position, and dispensingsensors may be provided in association with the nozzles to ensure that asupply of component is being delivered, and that the duration of thedelivery is sufficient to correspond with the desired amount to bedelivered. In this respect, a check on the dosage amount and theconfirmation of delivery of the component to the container may bemonitored for accuracy, and an operator may be alerted as to anydeviations. The feed lines 102 may comprise hollow tubing, and fittingsmay be used to connect the tubing with the canisters 101 and the pumpingmechanisms.

According to a preferred embodiment, the housing 12 may be constructedfrom an aesthetically pleasing material such as stainless steel, and thecover panel 16 may be constructed from glass with a handle 17 so thatthe dispensing of the components may be viewed. The sensor 15 preferablyis provided within the enclosed space or dispensing area 14 of thedevice 10. An optional holder or stand 18 may be used to secure thecontainer 100 in a proper alignment for receiving the components fromthe dispenser nozzles.

Referring to FIG. 3, a preferred embodiment of an apparatus 210 fordelivering a hair treatment product is illustrated. The apparatus 210 isshown supported on a frame 211. Alternatively, according to an alternateinstallation option, the apparatus 210 may be installed in a cabinet andremain stationary (see FIG. 27). The frame 211 is shown having a lowersupporting structure 212 that includes legs 213. The frame 211 alsoincludes a stage 214 onto which a receptacle (or dispensing cup), suchas the container or bowl 350 may be positioned to receive the dispensedproduct. The frame 211 is shown having an upper supporting structure215. The upper supporting structure 215 includes a pair of transversesupports 216,217 and a component support rack 218. The support rack 218preferably is configured to hold the components that contain the productthat is to be dispensed. According to a preferred embodiment, thecomponents or containers used to store and dispense the product are bags315,316,317,318,319,320. According to a preferred embodiment, asillustrated in FIG. 4A, the container 305 is configured having a casing,such as, for example, a cardboard box 315′ that preferably is arecyclable component, which surrounds the bag 315″. The casing or box315′ is constructed to be secure and strong, so as to withstandpotential effects of dropping and shifting during shipping. The bag 315″may be constructed as described herein in connection with the bag 315(or other bags). According to a preferred embodiment, each bag 315″ maybe contained in a box 315′, and preferably, the box 315′ containing thecomponent bag 315″ is sized to fit on the device 210. As shown in FIG.4A, the dispensing device 210 preferably is configured with an alternatesupport rack 218′ that supports the containers, such as that container305. The shelf preferably is provided above the pumps that are todeliver the respective components from the respective containers. Theshelf 218′ may be configured with slots into which the container 305sits. According to a preferred embodiment, the slots preferably arealigned above each respective pump that is to deliver the component fromthe respective bag.

A mounting mechanism removably mounts the containers on the device 210.As shown in FIGS. 3, 3A, 3B, 4 and 6, bags 315,316,317,318,319,320 aremounted on the frame upper support 215, and preferably on the componentsupport rack 218. The mounting mechanism is shown including slidableconnectors 322 which have a first end that engages with a bag and asecond end that slidably attaches to the component support rack 218 toslide along therewith. The support rack 218 preferably may support aplurality of bags, and, in addition, according to one option also maysupport replacement bags, so that if a component should run out, thereis another bag of that component at the apparatus 210.

According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the bags315,316,317,318,319,320 are provided with at least one, and, preferablya plurality of apertures 321 a,321 b,321 c thereof, provided in the topseam 323 of the bag 315. The connector 322 may slide along the supportrack or rail 218 and in this manner may be installed at a locationproximate to the pump that is to deliver that component to the bowl 350.The bags 315,316,317,318,319,320 are constructed to hold about 1 to 2quarts of a component therein, although the bags may be made indifferent sizes to hold different amounts of components therein. The bag315, as well as the bags for the other components, are constructed frommaterial that is suitable for the components that the bag is to holdtherein, and, more preferably, the bags are constructed from materialthat is resistant to, and non-reactive with the compounds that arepresent in other bags or being used with the apparatus that mayinadvertently come into contact with the bag 315. According to apreferred embodiment, the bag material is inert with regard to thecomponents. Examples of materials from which the bag may be constructedinclude polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (also known as TEFLON®), foil,polyethylene, and nylon, The bag 315 preferably is constructed from asuitably strong material and has seams that are strong so as to resistbreakage and leakage when being used and during shipping. The seams ofthe bag 315 (e.g., at the top, sides and bottom) may be formed bywelding, applying an adhesive, thermal sealing or other suitable method.If an adhesive is used, preferably, it is composed of a material thatdoes not react with or affect the component that the bag is provided tocarry. Preferably, leakage of components from the bag 315 is minimizedor eliminated. The components preferably are filled in the bag 315, andthe bag sealed (although, the seals may be in place and the componentdelivered to fill the bag through a sealable port or other opening. Thebag 315 preferably has a dispensing port for delivery of the contents. Atube or line is provided with a first end that connects with thedispensing port of the bag 315 and a second end that connects with theapparatus, and more particularly one of the dispensing nozzles of theapparatus. Alternately, the bag 315 may be supplied with the linepreattached. According to some embodiments, the lines connecting to theport or connector of the bag may be used for repeated connection to bags(including to a new bag that has been installed to replace a bag whosecontents are depleted). According to some embodiments, a line mayinclude an optional restrictor or clamp (not shown) that may be adjustedto regulate the flow passage at the restriction. According to someembodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the tube or line 358 preferablyincludes a first connector 358 c at its first end for connecting withthe bag port or bag connector 351. Each container, such as the box 315″or bag 315 also includes a label or other identification that providesthe batch number the name of the component, an expiration date whereapplicable, and may also include the shipping or order informationrelating to delivery.

As best shown in FIGS. 3, 5 and 6, a bag port or connector 351 isprovided at the lower end of the bag 315. The port or connector 351preferably is in sealed communication with the interior of the bag 315and the contents therein. Referring to FIG. 5, fasteners, such as thewelds 352 are shown securing the connector 351 to the bag 315. The bagconnector 351 may comprise a female shut-off pouch fitment that issecured by welding to the bag 351. The connector 351 may be made from amaterial that does not react with the component in the bag 315. Somesuitable examples of material for the connector 351 include nylon,teflon and polypropylene. According to a preferred embodiment, the bagconnector 351 is provided with a sealable valve that seals off the bagcontents from air from the exterior of the bag 315. Referring to FIG. 6,the bag connector 351 preferably, is configured to receive a matingconnector 358 c that is attached to a line or connects with the line.The mating connector 358 c preferably, when inserted into the bagconnector 351 opens the valve of the bag connector 351 and maintains theopen connection between the bag contents and the line 358 so that thecomponent may be drawn out from the bag 315, through the bag connector351 and mating connector 358 c, into the line 358. The bag connector 351preferably may have a removable cap (not shown) and, optionally, mayhave a removable foil seal over its opening to protect the contents fromunwanted air that may otherwise enter the bag 315 when in storage. Thebag connector 351 is configured to receive a line 358 through which thecomponent in the bag 315, such as, for example, a hair colorantcomponent, may be delivered to a pump. The line 358 preferably istubular and is constructed from a material that does not react with thecomponent in the bag 315, and preferably, the line 358 is opaque or hasa coating to minimize or block light from reaching the component thatresides in or travels through the line 358, so as to eliminate orminimize the potential for light that may otherwise oxidize or adverselyaffect the components that are to be delivered through the lines. Somepreferred materials from which the line may be constructed includesilicone, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (also known as TEFLON®) orother inert or materials that are non-reactive with the component to bedelivered therethrough. As shown in FIG. 3, according to a preferredembodiment, the line 358 has a first end 358 a that includes the matingconnector 358 c that is sealingly connected to the bag 315, preferably,by a connection made with the bag connector 351, and a second end 358 bwhich is connected to a delivery or dispensing nozzle of the apparatus210. The other lines 359,360,361,362,363 also are shown having a firstend 359 a,360 a,361 a,362 a,363 a, respectively, and a second end 359b,360 b,361 b,362 b,363 b, respectively, which is connected to adelivery or dispensing nozzle. The bag connector 351 and matingconnector 358 c preferably are constructed with a mating interlock thatautomatically seals when the connectors are not connected together, andopens to provide a passageway between the connected connectors 351,358 cwhen the connectors are connected together. The lines359,360,361,362,363, as described in connection with the line 358,preferably have mating connectors 359 c,360 c,361 c,362 c,363 c similarto that mating connector 358 c, which connect each of the respectivelines with a bag connector of a respective bag 316,317,318,319,320.

According to one embodiment, the tubes or lines 358,359,360,361,362,363preferably may be replaced as needed by providing a new tube or linethat preferably includes a mating connector and another end that issuitable for connection to a dispensing nozzle, or carries a dispensingnozzle thereon.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 3A, 3B and 6, the pumping mechanism 340 is shownincluding a plurality of pumps 341,342,343,344,345,346, which preferablymay be peristaltic pumps and may be configured to operate to deliver adosage of an amount of component based on the duration of the pumpoperation. Each pump 341,342,343,344,345,346 preferably is calibrated byrunning the pump for a predetermined time interval, such as, forexample, one minute, and determining the amount of component deliveredduring that interval. The pumps 341,342,343,344,345,346 preferably aremounted on the frame upper supporting structure 215, and are shownmounted to a horizontal support member 219. As depicted in FIG. 6, thepump 341 is shown with the line 358 passing through the pump. The tubeor line 358 preferably is flexible, and passes through the circular pumpcasing 341 a (and see 342 b FIG. 6). The pump 341 preferably has a rotor341 b with a plurality of rollers 341 c circumferentially arranged onthe rotor 341 b. The rollers 341 c compress the flexible tubes or linesat their respective engaging locations, wherein a roller 341 c pinchesthe tube or line 358 closed and forces the component contained withinthe bag 315 to move through the line 358 and beyond the pump 341 to adispensing location 370 of the apparatus 210. In this manner, accordingto a preferred embodiment, the pumps 341,342,343,344,345,346 of thepumping mechanism alternate between compression and relaxation of arespectively associated line 358,359,360,361,362,363 to regulate thedelivery of the respective beauty product components from theirrespective bags. The compression of the line respectively, seals thatline closed at the location of compression. According to a preferredembodiment, each component that is available for delivery to thedispensing bowl 350 preferably has a respective line and an associatedpump, so that each line and each pump delivers a single component to thedispensing location 370. The pumps 341,342,343,344,345,346 are providedto deliver the respective components from the bags315,316,317,318,319,320 through the respectively associated lines358,359,360,361,362,363 to the dispensing location 370 (FIG. 3). Adispensing outlet is provided at the dispensing location 370. Each line358,359,360,361,362,363 has a passageway therethrough through which therespective beauty product components may pass. In addition, each line358,359,360,361,362,363 communicatively links one of the respectivecontainers with the dispensing outlet for delivery of a respectivebeauty product component. The pumps 341,342,343,344,345,346 are shownhaving a casing or covering on the front thereof in FIGS. 3 and 6, and,the pumps in FIGS. 3A and 3B are represented to illustrate one exampleof installation of the respective lines 358,359,360,361,362,363.

As shown in FIG. 7, located at the dispensing location 370 are aplurality of respectively associated dispensing nozzles371,372,373,374,375,376, which are associated with the lines358,359,360,361,362,363. The dispensing end of each line, 358 b,359b,360 b,361 b,362 b,363 b, which is downstream of each respective pump,respectively, preferably has a dispensing nozzle, respectively,371,372,373,374,375,376, mounted thereon. The dispensing nozzles371,372,373,374,375,376 preferably may be angled in a direction towardthe center of the bowl 350 into which the components are delivered.According to one preferred embodiment, each dispensing nozzle371,372,373,374,375,376 may be configured having a tapered bore, andpreferably with a flow path diameter that is narrower than therespective line feeding the component to the nozzle. A mounting bracketmay be used to removably mount the nozzles on the dispensing device 210.Referring to FIGS. 3 and 7, a first embodiment of a mounting bracket 377is shown supported on the upper supporting structure 215. A respectiveplurality of mounts 378,379,380,381,382,383 are provided on the mountingbracket 377 and securing the respective dispensing nozzles371,372,373,374,375,376 on the apparatus 210. According to a preferredembodiment, the dispensing nozzles 371,372,373,374,375,376 are removablysecured on the mounting bracket 377 with the respective mounts so thatthe nozzles may be removed and cleaned, as desired. According to apreferred embodiment, the dispensing nozzles 371,372,373,374,375,376 arefixedly secured to the respective ends of the lines 358 b,359 b,360b,361 b,362 b,363 b. According to an alternate embodiment, thedispensing nozzles are removably mounted on the line ends. The removablemounting may be accomplished by providing the nozzle with a stepped orcircumferential fitting that may be press fit into the end of therespective line. Alternatively, a nozzle may be bonded to the line end.Though not shown, preferably end caps or covers are provided to seal offthe dispensing nozzles when not in use. An alternate embodiment of amounting bracket 377′ is shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, where the bracket377′ is attached to the upper frame portion 215, and where thedispensing nozzles 371,372,373,374,375,376 are held by the bracket 377′.

According to an alternate embodiment, a dispensing valve, such as, forexample, a pinch valve or duckbill valve (not shown), may be installedalong each line 358,359,360,361,362,363, preferably, downstream from therespective pumps 341,342,343,344,345,346, and preferably as part of arespective dispensing nozzle 371,372,373,374,375,376. The valve remainsopen when the pump produces a positive pressure or flow of componentthrough the line and closes off when the pump ceases to exert a positivepressure or flow. According to one embodiment, the valve closes toprovide a seal against back flow of air through the line, as well aspotential drips.

According to a preferred embodiment, the bag and line are supplied as asingle item, forming a unit, with a connector provided at the line end(opposite the bag end) for connection with a dispensing nozzle of thedevice. Preferably, the unit is sealed at the line end opposite the bagend so air and light do not infiltrate the bag or line contents.According to alternate embodiments, the bag is provided at one end ofthe line and a nozzle is mounted to the other end of the line. In thislatter embodiment, the bag, line and nozzle are provided together as aunit. According to these embodiments, the line may be installed on thepumping mechanism even with the bag or the nozzle, or both, preattachedto the line. For example, the container or bag containing a beautyproduct component may be sealingly connected to a first end of a line toform a component unit. The component unit (which includes the bagcontaining a supply of the component, e.g., such as a hair dyecomponent, and line sealingly connected thereto) is installed on thepumping mechanism. The installation preferably involves placing the lineon the rotor of a pump so that the pump may deliver the component fromthe bag through the line to the dispensing nozzle or dispensing outletof the device 210. According to an alternate embodiment, a nozzle issealingly connected to a second end of a respective line, and thecontainer bag, line connected thereto and nozzle form a component unitthat may be installed on the device 210. The component unit may beinstalled so that the line is engaged by the pump (such as the pumprotor) when the pump is operated, and, so that the dispensing nozzle(supplied with the bag and line) is positioned (e.g., received in amount 377, 377′) at the dispensing location 370 of the device 210 sothat the nozzle delivers component from the bag, through the line, intoa receptacle. In these embodiments, the component unit (bag and line orbag, line and nozzle) preferably are disposable and are a consumablecomponent that may be placed on the dispenser device 210 and discardedafter the component has been exhausted (or alternatively, and morepreferably, recycled and/or recharged after use). Optionally, a pinchvalve (not shown), as referred to herein, may be included as part of acomponent unit.

According to some embodiments, the tube or line may be preprimed, andthe component is contained in the bag as well as in the passageway ofthe line or tube. According to an alternate embodiment, a releasablevalve or stop is provided at the connection between the bag and the lineor tube, and is released to allow the component to flow from the baginto the tube. The release of the valve or stop preferably openscommunication from the bag to the line or tube.

The pumping mechanism arrangement shown provides respectively associatedpumps for delivery of each component to the dispensing location 370 ofthe apparatus 210. The amount of each dosage to be dispensed from a bag315,316,317,318,319,320 preferably is controlled by providing an inputto a respectively associated pump that corresponds with the amount ofresultant product desired, and the type of product desired. Each pump341,342,343,344,345,346 receives a respective input directing theoperation, such as, to operate the first pump 341 for a specific lengthof time. The time interval corresponds with a desired dosage for thecomponent to be delivered from the bag 315 by its respectivelyassociated pump 341. The other pumps 342,343,344,345,346 also areoperated in a similar manner to dispense the components from theirrespectively associated bags 316,317,318,319,320. The input sent to thepump 341 may be electrical signals that power the pump 341 to operatefor a particular interval of time. Preferably, the pump 341 is operatedto be driven at a speed that may consistently deliver the desiredquantities from the bag 315 to the bowl 350. Preferably, the pumps areuniformly provided to deliver a desired quantity when operated for apredetermined length of time, although each pump may be adjusted(independently of another), if desired or necessary.

According to preferred embodiments, the beauty product components thatare supplied in the containers, such as the bags315,316,317,318,319,320, are in a form having a preferred viscosity fordelivery through the respectively associated lines358,359,360,361,362,363 with the respectively associated peristalticpumps 341,342,343,344,345,346. According to one embodiment, thecomponents may be viscous liquids. Components may have viscosities fromabout 1 to 10,000 cP (centipoise), and preferably from about 20 to 5,000cP. According to some embodiments, the component viscosities may have arange from about 1 to 50 cP, with an alternate range being from about 20to 50 cP. According to an alternate embodiment, the components aresupplied as crème (or creams) and have a viscosity of that associatedwith a crème (or cream), for example, up to about 15,000 cP, and in arange of from about 5,000 to 15,000 cP. The beauty product componentsthat are installed for delivery on the device 210 preferably includecomponent products that may be mixed together to form a beauty product.A preferred beauty product produced by the device 210 is a hair dye. Thecomponents installed in the device 210 include the colorants as well asother components that are customarily used for formulating hair dyes,such as, for example, a developer and/or bleach, so that a fullyfunctional resultant product may be dispensed from the device 210.

A self-cleaning mechanism is provided. Each pump 341,342,343,344,345,346is associated with a respective bag that contains a component to bedelivered. The self-cleaning mechanism operates the pump to dispense aribbon or amount of product that corresponds with at least the volumecapacity (and possibly slightly more) of the portion of the flowpathafter the pump 341. The volume is equal to or slightly greater than thevolume capacity of the tube between the pump 341 and the dispensingnozzle plus the volume through the dispensing nozzle. Therefore, uponstartup of the dispensing apparatus 210, such as, for example, whenmaking the first dispensation of product for a day, e.g., where theapparatus 210 has sat overnight, or for some other prolonged period oftime, without use, then the self-cleaning mechanism is actuated tooperate the pumps to deliver those components that are sitting in theend of each of the respective lines 358,359,360,361,362,363, andpreferably, to deliver the components that have sat in a dispensing endof each respective line, 358 b,359 b,360 b,361 b,362 b,363 b, and in arespective dispensing nozzle 371,372,373,374,375,376. The self-cleaningmechanism also keeps track of the usage of the components beingdelivered, and the time interval between component deliveries, for eachrespective component. In the event that a designated time has passed,and a particular component (such as, for example, a particular color)has not been used, and is being called for as a component needed for abeauty product to be dispensed from the apparatus 210, the self-cleaningmechanism is programmed to instruct the processor to implement theoperation of the pump assigned to deliver that prolonged sittingcomponent, and to dispense the material out from the dispensing end ofthe respective line. The self-cleaning mechanism evacuates the productfrom the dispensing end of the line, and as the product is dispensed itis replaced with fresh product which is drawn into the line by the pump.The self-cleaning mechanism prevents or minimizes the chance of using anoxidized product. According to one embodiment, the self-cleaningmechanism, when implementing a cleaning operation to force componentthrough a line to provide a supply of fresh component in the line, mayimplement a cleaning cycle where those components that have not beenused for a predetermined period (e.g., 15 hours, or whatever the timeinterval is) may be dispensed by operating their respective pumpssimultaneously to dispense material into a receptacle that may bediscarded (such as, a disposable receptacle) or may be emptied from thereceptacle into which they were dispensed. The control mechanismpreferably is programmed with instructions to monitor usage so that if acomponent has sat in a line for a prolonged period (e.g., apredetermined time), then the dispensing device 210 does not dispense abeauty product until the cleaning cycle has been completed.

The apparatus 210 preferably may be operated using a user interface, andmore preferably a user interface that is graphical. Referring to FIG. 3b, a graphic display 400 is shown provided in association with theapparatus 210 (for example, as shown and described herein by the use ofa tablet or other remote device). The graphic display 400 may be mountedon the frame 211, or alternately may be located remote from thedispensing portion of the apparatus 210, including, for example, at alocation in the salon where the dispensing apparatus 210 is located.Alternatively, the dispensing apparatus 210 may be configured to receiveinstructions for dispensing a product that are communicated from alocation remote from the salon. According to a preferred embodiment, theapparatus 210 includes computing components, such as a processor, astorage component, which, for example, may be a hard drive or othermemory media. The apparatus 210 preferably includes a control mechanismwhich displays input on the display 400 and regulates the operation ofthe pumps to deliver appropriate amounts of components into the bowl350. The control mechanism preferably is housed within the housing 401.The control mechanism includes software with instructions forinstructing the hardware processor to act upon the input of a selection.The control mechanism may be linked with one or more remote inputdevices to be operated by the receipt of inputs from a remote device.The software preferably is instructed to provide the instructions tocontrol the pumps and the respective delivery of components from thebags to the bowl 350. Preferably, a database of recipes for hairproducts, such as, for example, hair colorants, is provided. Thedatabase may be stored on a memory, such as a hard drive, or otherstorage media, and, according to preferred embodiments may be linkedwith or updated with downloadable content through a communication linkto a remote database or server, or through a removable media that may beinstalled thereon. The database of hair colorant recipes preferably isassociated with the selection and styling of a person's hair, and may belinked with one or more selection options from a selection menu of thedynamic display discussed herein that may be used by a hair technicianor stylist and/or client to arrive at a desired selection for a hairtreatment (e.g., a cut, coloring, styling and the like). The database ofhair colorant recipes, however, is not the exclusive selection for acolor, as according to preferred embodiments, a user, such as, forexample, a salon stylist or technician, may utilize slide and/or diallevels to provide attenuation of colors, including shade and tonelevels, and intermediate levels. The selections may or may notcorrespond to an existing recipe, and, according to preferredembodiments, the software is provided with instructions for receiving aselection of a color, tone or shade that the user (such as a salontechnician) has selected, and utilizing the recipe database, butapplying the modification so, even where the shade has not been usedpreviously, and is not part of the database of recipes, it may beformulated and dispensed. The new shade or formulation also may be savedto a database for future reference and use. In addition, the shade maybe evaluated in terms of the evaluation component of the salon networkprovider, to determine trends and preferences of customers/clients, andutilize that information for marketing and awareness, including inconnection with the system discussed herein.

The components of the system preferably are constructed so replacementparts may be stored, delivered or otherwise shipped to a location wherethe machine is being used, so that any down time is minimized. Thedesign of the system and apparatus, although shown as the dispensingdevice 210 depicted in a preferred orientation, may be configured in oneor more alternate configurations, for example, to dispense components ina circular configuration, or, in a linear conveyed arrangement.According to one preferred embodiments, a circular dispensing point isutilized. Preferably, the apparatus or dispensing device 210 isconfigured so that it may dispense hair care products, such as, haircolor products in the same area in which the home hair care products aredispensed. The dispensing device 210 according to embodiments of theinvention may be configured to dispense hair care products, includinghair color products, for the salon use, as well as hair care productsfor home use. According to one embodiment, the home use products may bedispensed and purchased at the salon location for home use by theconsumer. The hair care products for home use may be dispensed insuitable packaging at the salon location. According to some embodiments,the hair care products may be dispensed for home use and for salon use,but packaging may be different for the home use, so that the consumermay store the hair care product in the packaging, whereas the productmay be dispensed for salon use in a portable, disposable or reusablecontainer (such as, for example, the bowl 350). Product dispensed forthe consumer for home use may be dispensed into a package that fits ontothe nozzles and that may be sealed to prevent air from entering or thecontents from drying. The home use packaging also may include a labelthat is printed and identifies the product by name and color, the datedispensed, an expiration date, as well as the formulation or a code bywhich the formulation may be derived by the dispensing operator.Apparatus according to the invention may be constructed to dispense haircoloring, as well as treatments, shampoo, conditioners, lotions andcreams. The invention allows for customers to obtain a custom blend fromthe device, and, the customer may continue to have the custom blendparameters available for subsequent purchase of the same custom blend.In addition, alternative blends may be made to adjust the custom blend,such as, for time of year, other treatment applied, and the like.

Currently, in the industry, the area behind a shampoo area is known as a“backbar”. The present invention provides a solution that automates thesalon hair care products, so the task may became automated, andtherefore, a benefit is that salons may greatly reduce or eliminatepotential waste and theft by having what were previously the “backbar”products dispensed in the same or similar way for each individual hairsalon client. According to one preferred embodiment, the hair products(e.g., shampoos, conditioners, treatments and the like) may be dispensedonto a biodegradable “dose cup” and then carried to the sink.

According to another embodiment, a warehouse location may be implementedto serve as a fulfillment center where customers may order hair careproducts on-line and have the order filled and shipped from thefulfillment center. Alternately, the client/customer orders may beautomatically refilled per client/customer's request. The warehouse orfulfillment location preferably also warehouses bulk product forlocations as well as performing the fill and ship operations forconsumers that place on-line orders. Preferably, the warehouse locationhas a communication network that communicates with the locations that itserves. Accordingly, the apparatus for dispensing products (haircoloring, treatments, shampoo and conditioners), preferably has acommunication component that communicates with the warehouse network.The apparatus is configured with a sensing mechanism that senses thenumber of dispenses (of a particular product), and/or the amount ofproduct dispensed, and/or levels of product remaining, so that when theproduct level is low (or at a predetermined threshold or level) acommunication is made from the apparatus to the warehouse, and productsmay be shipped automatically from the warehouse to the location wherethe apparatus is located. According to a preferred embodiment, thecontrol mechanism may be configured with software having instructions torecord the installation of a product bag on the machine. The dispensingsfrom the pump, which may be the total duration of the pump operation,may be determinative of the need to replace a bag. For example, thecontrol mechanism may be programmed with instructions to implement aninventory search or reorder routine when the pump has operated for aparticular duration that corresponds with an amount of product dispensedfrom its respective product bag. An identification tag may be providedon each product bag. According to preferred embodiments, theidentification tag preferably is a communicative tag that containsinformation that may be electronically read and communicated. Accordingto an alternate embodiment, the component container, such as a bag or abox in which the bag is contained, has an RFID element (e.g., such as,an RFID chip or tag) associated with it that identifies informationabout the product component in the bag, which may, for example, includethe product name, manufacturer, batch and lot numbers, expiration date,shipment date, quantity, as well as temperature changes. As used hereinRFID tag or chip refers to an RFID component that may be provided withinformation that may be read with a reader through interrogation of theRFID component. The reader or interrogator is generally used with orincludes a transponder that decodes the information read from the RFIDtag.

RFID components generally involve the use of an interrogator thatincludes an interrogator antenna or coil, and a transceiver (withdecoder). A transponder is provided with a transponder antenna or coil,and is generally referred to as the RFID tag. The RFID tag may beprogrammed with a unique serial number or other identifying data,uniquely identifying that particular tag from other tags (in addition toother information about the component in the container, such as theproduct name, manufacturer, batch and lot numbers, expiration date,shipment date, quantity, as well as temperature changes that the productmay have gone through). The RFID tag is read with an interrogatorantenna which emits signals, which preferably are radio signals.Interrogators may read and write data to the RFID tag. Generally, theantenna may be used to relay the information between the RFID tag andthe transceiver (which decodes the information transmitted). The sensingand monitoring mechanism of the invention preferably employ RFIDcomponents, including RFID tags that are placed on the containers, and,in some embodiments on the pumps and lines, antennae (which arepreferably short range antennae or interrogators with limited field)that are respectively placed on the dispensing device to read the RFIDtag of a respectively placed container, and wider range antennae used todetect the presence of the containers in a broader area (e.g., at thesalon or location of the dispensing device, to keep track of productcomponent inventory). According to preferred embodiments, theinformation obtained from the interrogation of the RFID tags iscommunicated to a server or other data handling component or computingdevice. Preferably, the system is configured to distinguish inventory ofcomponent containers present in the salon from components that are atthe salon but already in use on the dispensing device. Although the RFIDtags of the respective containers installed on the device and in use maybe sensed by the wide range interrogator or antenna (if they may be readby the same frequency), the information sensed and relayed by thelimited range antenna may be used to identify the in use component(based on the unique identification) as a component already in use, andtherefore separate from the supply inventory. According to preferredembodiments, the RFID tags are passive tags. Alternatively, active tagsmay be used, but generally, they are more expensive due to the inclusionof a power source, such as, for example a battery.

According to preferred embodiments, an RFID tag or chip may bepositioned at a location on the container (such as the box) as part of asensing and monitoring mechanism for providing an indication of productlevel in the bag, or preferably, determining a threshold level (e.g.,such as, for example, a low level of product). The control mechanism maymonitor the information about the component container, includinginformation obtained in connection with the reading of the respectiveRFID tag, as well as RFID generated or sensed information (e.g.,temperature). A sensing and monitoring mechanism is employed to sensethe presence of beauty product components and monitor their presence andusage. The sensing and monitoring mechanism preferably may include oneor more RFID tags for sensing product presence (as discussed herein),and processing components, such as, for example, a computing component(e.g., computer or server) to record the sensing data and store thatdata, as well as evaluate the information provided from the RFIDcomponents to determine the usage of beauty product components, theavailability of beauty product components installed on the device 210,as well as beauty product components that may be available in inventory,including at the location where the device 210 is present or being used.According to one embodiment, the sensing and monitoring mechanism forsensing and monitoring the usage of the beauty component in thecontainer or bag, such as, for example, a hair colorant component, isconfigured to provide an output that corresponds to a condition. Onecondition is when the amount of the hair colorant in the containerreaches a low level. The sensing of a low level indication preferablygenerates an output, where the preferred output may be to generate atleast one instruction to check the supply of that component on hand andanother instruction to reorder the component. The component containersin inventory, which may be present at the hair salon location (e.g.,where the dispensing apparatus 210 is deployed and operated), preferablyeach include an RFID tag that includes the identity of the productcomponent, as well as other information about the product component. Theapparatus 210 is therefore able to make a determination whether thereexists inventory at the apparatus location. The RFID tags preferably maybe interrogated by a signal generated or issued by a signal-issuingcomponent, which may include, for example, an interrogator or antennaconfigured to read the RFID tag and a transponder, as well as includingthrough a Wi-Fi access point or router, or other communication componentthat may be used to transmit signals (encoded or decoded). For example,the control mechanism of the device 210 may be configured to receiveinformation from the interrogator/reader and/or transponder. The controlmechanism may include one or more components for receiving and decodinginformation from the RFID tags.

According to one embodiment, the interrogator component may be providedon the apparatus 210, preferably as part of the control mechanism.According to other embodiments, the existing Wi-Fi or other wirelessnetworking component, such as the salon's wireless modem, router, switchor other device, may be configured (through a remote means, such as acomputer or server) to issue an instruction to have a reader generate aninterrogation signal to obtain a response from the RFID tag on acomponent container. In this manner, for example, the apparatus 210 mayproceed to ascertain whether there is a supply of the beauty productcomponent in inventory (and the number of units in inventory), and, mayalso generate an order for the beauty product component (which may beautomated or require a user to approve).

The inventory control system preferably includes a sensor, such as, forexample, an RFID tag, associated with each respective container. EachRFID tag preferably includes RFID information data that identifies theproduct in the container, as well information about the product, suchas, product properties, e.g., contents, manufacturer, expiration date,date produced, and date ordered. The inventory control system isconfigured to account for inventory based on the sensed information(e.g., from interrogating RFID tags) and generate alerts based on theactual or a perceived content levels of the respective beauty productcomponents in their respective containers. An interrogator is configuredto generate a signal and read the RFID tags that are respectivelyassociated with the respective containers. The inventory control systempreferably is used in conjunction with a computing component, including,for example, the control system or remote computer that includessoftware with instructions for implementing captures of the RFIDinformation data from containers on the device 210, as well ascontainers located at the dispensing location. In addition, theinventory control system may include a communication link between thedispenser 210 and a remote computing component through which suppliesmay be ordered.

The inventory control system also facilitates guarding against productwaste (through theft or misplacement of items). The RFID tag also may beconfigured to provide a location of where a product bag has been sensed.For example, where theft is a concern, according to some embodiments,the RFID tag is configured so that it may be interrogated through asignal to provide its location. According to a preferred embodiment, theRFID tag of each container may be utilized to monitor the beauty productcomponent prior to its installation and use, as well as during its useon the device 210, and after it has been consumed. Monitoring may beimplemented by keeping track of the pump operation of each respectivepump and respective dispensings for each component. The informationregarding the usage of components preferably is stored on a storagecomponent of the device or server. The usage information preferably iscommunicated to a monitoring mechanism, such as, for example a computingcomponent configured with software to receive and store informationrelating to the usage of the component product (and container) based onpump dispensings and component install date, evaluate the level ofcontent, and generate an output that may be a reorder of the product, ora check on inventory, or both (if there is none, or a low level ofinventory of product). For example, the output generated may correspondto a condition where the amount of said beauty product component in abag has reached a low level. The output may be an instruction that isissued or generated (to the salon device, text message, or othernotification mechanism) to check the supply on hand of the beautyproduct component whose condition was sensed to be at a low level. Theoutput also may generate an automatic reorder of the low levelcomponent, which may be done when the level is sensed to be low, orafter the inventory level of that component at the dispensing locationhas been checked for the presence of additional inventory.

According to a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, a sensor, suchas, for example, an RFID tag 860 is provided on the container 305, andis shown positioned at a location on the container 305 so that when thecontainer 305 is placed on the dispensing apparatus 210, the tag 860aligns with a reader antenna 861. The reader antenna 861 is secured onthe frame 211 of the apparatus 210, and preferably may be linked tocommunicate with the control mechanism or with a wired or wirelessnetwork for communication of information read from the RFID tag 860 to acomputing component, such as, for example, a network server or saloncomputer or server. A transponder or decoder may be provided to decodethe information retrieved from the RFID tag. According to one preferredembodiment, the device 210 includes a programmable logic controller(PLC), a reader and a secondary controller or component (such as acontroller) to link the PLC with an Ethernet or Wi-Fi component forcommunication with one or more components, such as a remotely linkedcomponent, e.g., an OPC server, SQL server and/or cloud server. Adecoding component may be provided or linked with a remote server todecode information relayed from the antenna 861 reading an RFID tag 860.Preferably, as with the tag 860, an RFID tag is provided on each one ofthe respective containers installed on the device 210. The readerantenna 861 is disposed at a reading distance to interrogate the RFIDtag 860. The antenna 861, for example, may be a near field/short rangeUHF antenna, and a plurality of antenna may be provided so that for eachslot or space on the apparatus 210 for a container, there is acorresponding respective antenna to read the container RFID tag. TheRFID tags preferably are provided with identification data thatidentifies each beauty product component bag (and its contents)independent of any other beauty product component bag (e.g., though aunique serial number assigned to the RFID tag). A reader is provided onthe device 210 at each location where a container is to be installed soit is able to interrogate the RFID tag of a container that is installedin the device at the reader location. A temperature sensor for sensingtemperature may be provided in conjunction with the RFID tag, so thattemperature information also is included as part of the RFID data orinformation relayed. Where the temperature sensor or component also isassociated with a container or bag, the temperature component also mayprovide information, and the sensed information may include the RFIDinformation about the container as well as the temperature ortemperature change that the container and its contents have undergone.According to a preferred embodiment, the temperature sensor or componentsenses the temperature of a component bag in regard to its respectiveRFID identification data, and the temperature sensor in connection withthe reader communicates the RFID identification data and usageinformation to a computing component where the information may beprocessed to determine the stability of beauty product component in thebag. The computing component designated to receive the information maybe on the dispenser 210 itself (such as the control mechanism) or may beremote from the dispenser 210 and dispensing location, and linkedthrough a communication network (e.g., Internet, VPN, or the like).

According to one preferred embodiment, communication with an RFID tagprovided on the beauty component bag may be carried out using an openwireless standard that provides the ability for exchanging data betweenanother component, such as a server or base station and other machinesusing radio transmissions or other network or communicationtransmission, such as, through the Internet, a VPN and the like. Thesensing and monitoring mechanism determines an amount of beauty productcomponent present within the container, such as, for example, the bag315, or container 305 (FIG. 4A). The sensing and monitoring mechanismpreferably includes a sensor chip, such as an RFID tag that is mountedon the container. The sensing and monitoring mechanism also may be usedfor sensing a component level at the location of use, such as a salon.Although the sensing and monitoring mechanism may be used to determinethe level of component in a container or bag and potential availableinventory on hand of a component for use in the apparatus 210 (e.g., ata salon), the sensing and monitoring mechanism also may be implementedto monitor beauty products purchased by the consumer for use at home.This is done preferably through user data, such as, anticipated need andusage, previous orders, and expected usage. For example, the user maypurchase beauty products, such as, for example shampoo. According tosome embodiments, the shampoo may be specially formulated and customizedfor that user. According to a preferred embodiment, the server may beconfigured with instructions to monitor the user's use or expected usageof product based on historic usage by that user (frequency of reorders),information from the user profile and anticipated or expected use, orcombinations of these. The system software also may include instructionsthat provide the user, such as the consumer, with an option thatautomatically places an order for more inventory of the product that islow (such as a shampoo) or, alternatively or in addition, provides theuser with an option or reminder to place an order. According to apreferred embodiment, as discussed herein, the consumer may beintroduced to products at a salon, where the product is used on, andeven formulated specially for the consumer, and the consumer may havethe ability to purchase the same product. The product may be madeavailable through a distribution center that is linked to the consumerinformation that the salon uses and may store. The consumer thereforemay purchase the same formulation, even if a custom formulation. Theformulation also, if desired, may remain proprietary, so the consumermay not have the ability to purchase the product other than at the salonwhere it is used on or sold to the consumer, or from a distributionlocation (e.g., online order that is prepared and shipped to theconsumer from a distribution location). The apparatus 210 may be used ata salon location, or may also be used at a central distribution locationso products may be produced packaged and shipped to the consumer. Theapparatus 210 may be provided in multiple units where a distributionlocation required more demand than a salon. Alternatively, the apparatus210 may be scaled to be larger to produce multiple containers ofcustomized product at a time. A label or bar code associating theconsumer identification with the container in which it is dispensed.Alternatively, or in addition thereto, the information may be providedon a chip or tag, such as, for example, an RFID tag. According topreferred embodiments of the invention, the communication betweensensor-enabled devices, such as, for example, product containers, maytake place through the use of components, including those associated foruse with machine to machine communications, which may include sensors,RFID elements, Wi-Fi and/or other communications links, such ascellular. In addition, the control mechanism of the invention mayinclude software with instructions to instruct a hardware processor toaid a networked device to store and interpret data, and make decisions,such as whether to reorder product or generate an alert of a productexpiration or other condition. The product usage for the apparatus 210,as well as home use of a product, may be monitored with the controlmechanism, which may be part of the apparatus 210, or throughcommunications links to a server that may be remote from the controlmechanism of the apparatus 210, which may be provided to link through acommunications network, preferably thorough one or more communicatingdevices.

The apparatus 210 may be configured with a control mechanism thatincludes a timer. The timer may be alternatively or additionallyincludes as part of a sensing and monitoring mechanism. According to apreferred embodiment, the timer may be associated with the sensing andmonitoring mechanism and be configured to operate so that when productis dispensed, the time of dispensing is recorded and considered. Forexample, for some component products that are used more frequently thanother components, the level for reorder may be different (versus thelevel of reorder for product components that are not consumed asrapidly).

Information relayed from the sensing and monitoring mechanism, includingRFID sensed information relating to usage and inventory, as well astimed usage information may be provided to a computing component that islinked with the distribution and or warehousing of the product andproduct components used by the apparatus 210. According to a preferredembodiment, information may be relayed from the apparatus 210 to awarehouse ordering component, which may comprise a computer with anetwork connection that is linked for communication with the dispensingapparatus 210. The ordering component may be programmed to receiveinformation communicated by the apparatus 210. The informationcommunicated by the apparatus 210 may include the levels of product.According to some embodiments, the ordering component also is linked toan order database, which preferably includes the product shipments, andthe product levels as well as product to be ordered may also take intoaccount product shipped from the warehouse to the apparatus location.For example, where an apparatus sensing and monitoring mechanismincludes a component that senses and communicates that the level of aproduct is low, the warehouse ordering component may receive thatinformation, but may not ship a product if the warehouse orderingcomponent already has information that the apparatus location hasproduct stock on hand (e.g., of the component or product associated withthat low level value), and that product stock on hand is suitable.Alternatively, according to some embodiments, the warehouse componentmay receive information or interrogate the apparatus location, throughissuance of instructions to activate one or more readers orinterrogators to scan for the existence of component at that location.According to some embodiments, the warehouse ordering component may beconfigured to determine when stock is insufficient, and when levels ofproduct being used by the apparatus 210 are low so that a timelyshipment of product may be provided to the apparatus location beforedepletion of the current supply that the apparatus 210 already hasimmediately available to it.

According to a preferred embodiment, the warehouse location preferablyincludes an apparatus for filling shampoo, treatment and conditioner forinternet sales. The warehouse location preferably also has an apparatus,which may be similar to the apparatus 210, but designed for larger,multiple orders and for packaging an already dispensed and mixedproduct.

Although the apparatus 210 includes a stage on which a container such asthe bowl 350 is placed to receive components dispensed from thedispensing nozzles, according to an alternate embodiment, a conveyortype arrangement of dispensing nozzles may be provided as analternative. For example, according to a one alternate embodiment, aconveyor belt countertop is provided in place of or on the stage, andthe nozzles are arranged in a linear arrangement, with dispensing ofeach component taking place through delivery to the container or bowl350 when it has reached the location below where the nozzle ispositioned along the conveyor path. For example, a durable, thick,rubber-like material for easy cleaning (which preferably is resistant tothe hair care products) may be used to convey product. The conveyor maybe encased and have an aesthetic quality to it. According to oneembodiment, the conveyor is placed within a glass (or visible panel).Preferably a container is provided for receiving the product. Thecontainer is moved along the conveyor. For example, according to oneembodiment, the conveyor has notches or another type of means forsecuring the container as the product is being dispensed from thedispensing apparatus. The container may make stops, so the conveyor maystop at one or more locations along the apparatus as the products, orproduct components, are dispensed. According to one embodiment, asensor, such as for example, an object detecting device, is provided todetect whether a container is in the proper place. This facilitatesreduction of both accidents and product waste, as the sensor preferablyis linked for communication to the apparatus controls (e.g., such as acontrol mechanism), so that when an out of place container is sensed,then the apparatus ceases dispensing, and sends an alert signal to theoperator or other appropriate individual or component designated toreceive the alert. According to this alternate embodiment, the productis dispensed in a linear fashion, and the apparatus includes a processorand media (such as a chip, flash memory or a hard drive) that containsinstructions for instructing the processor to control the distance oftravel of the conveyor or belt in order to position the container underthe appropriate dispensing tube or nozzle of the dispensing apparatus.The container may move along the path of travel or conveying path toeach necessary fill point and then move on to the next point. Theapparatus also may include an alerting mechanism that emits a sound toalert that the fill is starting and finishing or even to announce thenumber being filled (the number corresponding to the order number of theorder for the hair product desired to be dispensed from the apparatus).According to some preferred embodiments, the panel or a voice alert maybe provides to provide an ingredient count such as, “blending beginsnow”, or such as “filling 1, 4, 7, 12, . . . ” or “blend complete.”

According to embodiments of the invention, the dispensing apparatusincludes a plurality of tubes or lines (such as the lines358,359,360,361,362,363 shown and described herein) that connect with arespective product containers or component bags (such as a bag containedin a box). According to a preferred embodiment, as shown and discussedherein, the beauty product component is a hair color component providedin a bag housed within a cardboard box. The product component bagpreferably has a port with a connector that connects with the productcontainer or bag. According to the alternate embodiment, where theapparatus is configured to dispense along a linear path, the lines ortubes used to deliver product from the bag to the container may beuniform, so that the tube may be made a consistent measurable length(making the apparatus more economical, and reducing the supply of partsrequired to maintain the apparatus). In addition, the apparatus 210 maybe configured with the display and/or control mechanism separatelylocated from the pumps, bags and other parts of the apparatus 210. Thecontrol mechanism and/or display may communicate to the remotelysituated pump mechanism through a secondary control provided on theapparatus 210 that receives the instruction from the remotely situatedcontrol mechanism component and/or associated display, and operates theapparatus 210 pump mechanism to deliver appropriate amounts ofcomponents to the desired receptacle, such as the bowl 350. According topreferred embodiments, the control mechanism regulates the operation ofthe pumping mechanism to deliver dosages of the respective beautyproduct components to the dispensing outlet of the device 210 to providea beauty product. The control mechanism also receives instructions,which may be from a salon application operating on a salon computingdevice, or from a local or remote server, e.g., the salon networkoperator server, to produce a beauty product by regulating the operationof the respective plurality of peristaltic pumps of the device 210 todeliver dosages of beauty product components from the respective bagscontaining the respective beauty product components.

According to some embodiments, the devices according to the inventionmay be configured to include the dispensing features in one room, andthe product containers in another room or location, which is out of thesight of the area where the dispensing apparatus is used. According tosome embodiments, the apparatus may be configured to be installed as an“over-the-counter” concept, or alternatively, may be installed as alocked room and “load from behind” concept. According to one embodiment,the apparatus may be configured to allow the installer to determine themost suitable way for the application (e.g., “over the counter”, or“load from behind”).

The dispensing apparatus 210 may be configured to dispense haircoloring, hair care products, as well as other personal care products,such as, for example, shampoos, hair conditioners, lotions and creams.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the dispensing apparatus isconfigured to dispense components required for hair coloring, anddispenses a hair dye formed from the dispensed components. One preferredembodiment is configured to dispense colors (such as, for example, threeprimary colors), an oxidant (which may involve multiple levels ofoxidant, and hence two separate components), and a viscosity regulatingagent. According to this latter embodiment, up to sixty-four dispensinglines are connected with at least sixty-four pumps to dispense thecomponents to a container. Preferably, the components may be supplied inbags with a port or connector for connecting to one of the designatedlines or tubes of the apparatus that has been designated for thatcomponent. Colors, keyed connectors, or other identifying elements maybe used to ensure the proper component containers or bags are connectedto the appropriate tube or line. Although three colors, two oxidants andone viscosity regulating agent are described, there may be greater orfewer colorant components, including, for example, more colors, or othercomponents for regulating and stabilizing the hair colorant to bedispensed from the apparatus. According to one preferred embodiment,sensors, such as, for example, RFID tags, may be implemented foridentifying and certifying that the appropriate colors or components areinstalled in the correct location on the dispensing device 210.According to a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, a small rangeor limited field antenna 861 is mounted at a location on the dispensingdevice 210 to align with the RFID tag 860 of a component container 305that is installed on the device 210, so that while the component (suchas a container 305 or bag 315) is in place on the device 210, the RFIDtag is read. The antenna 861 is shown mounted on the rear wall of theshelf 218′. The antenna range is limited so as not to read RFID tagsfrom adjacent containers also installed on the device 210. Uponinstallation of the component, the component's RFID tag 860 passes oraligns with the antenna 861, and the antenna 861 provides a firstreading of the RFID tag 860 identifying the component container 305. Thecontainer 305 in which the product component is supplied includes a bag315′ that is encased within a casing, such as, for example, thecardboard box 315″. In this alternate configuration, the container 305is installed on a shelf 218′ of the dispensing device 210. Thedispensing device depicted in FIG. 4A is constructed similar to thedevice 210 shown and described herein but with a shelf 218′ on the frame211′ (in place of the hooks 322 and support 218). A tube 358′ preferablyconnects with the bag 315″, and may either make a connection within thebox 315′ or alternatively, extend through an opening 315 b′ the boxlower panel 315 a′. As discussed herein in connection with the bag 315and tube 358, the line or tube 358′ may be preattached to the bag 315″and, according to another option, a nozzle (not shown in FIG. 4A) may bepreattached to the opposite end of the line or tube 358′. The casing,such as the box 315′ protects the bag 315″ and contents held thereinduring storage, shipping and handling. The shelf 218′ may be providedwith slots formed thereon to provide bays within which the containers,such as the container 305, may be seated. The shelf 218′ preferably hasat least an opening in a wall thereof, such as the lower wall 218″ toprovide a space for the line or tube to extend. The bays or slots formedby the shelf 218′ preferably are provided for each container 305 and areformed at a location proximate to the pump serving to deliver thecomponent from the bag 315′. The RFID tag preferably may store bits ofinformation, including for example in code or other form, informationthat identifies, for example, the manufacturer, expiration date, productserial number (unique product identification number), product content,and other information. One preferred example is an RFID tag or chip thatstores 96 bits which are embedded into the tag. The bits of informationmay employ naming convention or code to make use of the storagecapability to maximize the information embedded, such as a coderepresenting a manufacturer of the component. The antenna 861 preferablyis coupled with a transceiver or other component that receives theinformation from interrogation of the RFID tag 860 and stores orcommunicates that information over a network or on or to a server. Theinformation also may be processed to determine whether a replacement ofthat component needs to be shipped to the location of the dispensingdevice 210.

The device 210 also may have a mechanism to make sure that the propercomponent is dispensed when called for. For example, in the case thatthe RFID tag is read, and the information communicated and processed(for example, with the device control mechanism, or to a remote serverthat receives the information and processes it), and the component RFIDtag identifies the component as the wrong component for that position orlocation in the dispensing device 210, then a signal or alert is sent.The signal or alert also may be coupled with an instruction thatprevents further dispensing of the components from the machine, untilthe proper component is installed in its proper location, or until anoverride of the alert or instruction is made. Similarly, if an emptycomponent container or bag is installed (for example, a previously usedcomponent container), then the RFID tag may be read and the processingof the information is able to identify the component through its RFIDtag as signifying an empty component container. An alert or shut down offurther dispensing may be implemented until the situation is remedied.In a preferred embodiment, the antenna 861 may be about a 4 inch by 4inch size and may face a 2 to 3 inch area on the dispensing device 210where the component container 305 is to be seated. Consequently, whenthe component container is removed from the device (or its slot positionon the device 210), then the antenna 861 also senses the removal, by thelack of RFID tag readable signal. The removal may be processed as anevent, signifying the component container has been removed (or may havebeen consumed). The RFID removal event may be processed to correspondwith the component dispensing information (based on the record of pumpdispensing of that component from its container). If the informationmatches, then no instructions may be provided, but where the dispensingexpected usage does not correspond with the depletion of the use of thecomponent in that bag, then an alert may be generated and provided to anappropriate person or device (e.g., such as the salon network operator,or operator of the salon using the dispensing device 210). Although thelimited range antenna 861 is implemented for use in connection withreading of component containers on the device 210, a broader rangeinterrogator may be utilized at one or more locations throughout thedispensing device location (e.g., such as the premises of the salon) todetect the presence of inventory that may be present at the salon (orlocation of the dispensing device). The information may be processed toprovide information on components that have not been depleted (e.g.,exclude empty containers that may be in waste disposal) or to excludecomponents already installed on the device 210), so that a trueinventory may be read. This may be done by processing the informationdetermined to identify through the RFID tags on the component containerssensed, and excluding component containers whose RFID tag or uniqueidentifier (code or bits) were recoded as already having been previouslyinstalled and consumed, and also excluding those component containersthat are indicated to be in use on the device. Alternatively, the readeror other component designed to read RFID tags of the containers toidentify inventory may be assigned or limited to select locations of thesalon premises where inventory is stored, away from disposal and thedevice 210.

According to a preferred embodiment, the device 210 preferably isconfigured so that the containers that contain the beauty productcomponents may be placed in locations on the device, such as, forexample, as shown in the alternate shelf depiction of FIG. 4A, where acontainer 305 is positioned on a shelf or slot 218′. When placed at adesignated location on the device, the RFID tag 860 of the container 305is read with the antenna 861 positioned at that slot. (See FIG. 4A) Thedevice 210, and preferably the control mechanism, identifies thecomponent in the slot. The slot or container location on the devicecorresponds with a particular pump of the device 210. The controlmechanism or software that is provided on a local or remote serverdesignates that pump to correspond with the component whose tag is readand the contents identified. For example, a recognition feature ormechanism correlates the pumps and respective component associated witha particular pump (e.g., through the RFID tag and slot identification,as well as possibly, the pump identification or position and line cominginto the pump). According to a preferred embodiment, the device 210 isconfigured to identify the slot location of the component, so that whenthat component is called for by a formula or instruction to provide adosage of that component, the dispensing is done by that correspondingpump. Therefore, in the event that a container is placed in the “wrong”slot, the pumping mechanism will be operated to deliver the propercomponent, or, if it is not present, then it will not dispense thecomponent merely because there is a container in the slot. In addition,in the event that the container is installed on the device 210 but isnot in a designated slot, the device 210 automatically adapts to the newconfiguration based on where the component container is placed on thedevice 210 (e.g., which slot it is placed). Instructions preferably areprovided in software that is stored on the control mechanism of thedevice, a remote or local server, or multiple locations (e.g., thedevice 210 and a server). The pumping mechanism therefore preferably iscontrolled to deliver the proper component that corresponds with thepump that the component is associated. According to preferredembodiments, the container containing a component may be placed anywherein the machine (e.g., at any slot, and to be delivered by any pump) andthe control mechanism is configured with software containinginstructions to detect and identify what the product component is basedon the RFID reading.

According to an alternate embodiment, the mechanism for identifying thecontainer to deliver the respective dosage preferably may includepositioning an RFID reader or tag on a pump, and, alternately, an RFIDtag on the line or tube so that the RFID tag of the line may be read toidentify the line passing through the pump as corresponding with acomponent container. The component container RFID tag and line RFID tagpreferably may be the same in the embodiments where the component issupplied as a component unit, with a bag containing a content of aproduct component and a line attached to the bag (as well as in someembodiments, a nozzle attached to the line at the line end opposite thebag end). The line and container (including the bag) may be recycled,and, according to some embodiments, the RFID tag is removed andreplaced. According to alternate embodiments, an RFID is provided thatis readdressable, so that the same RFID tag is reinitialized withalternate information.

The dispensing apparatus and warehouse component preferably arenetworked and a server may be provided at the warehouse forcommunication with the apparatus served by that warehouse, or otherdispensing apparatus that require supplies.

Although the device 210 may be operated remotely, through a tablet orother remote computing device, or may be operated through a local orremotely linked server, preferably, the control mechanism on the deviceitself may be used to dispense products from the device 210. Forexample, preferably multiple failsafe solutions are built into thedevice 210. According to preferred embodiments, critical data to operatethe machine is stored on the PLC (or control mechanism) in the event ofa complete internet or other communication interruption. The device 210also may be configured with a built-in hotspot to insure communicationcontinues with the device 210 and remote computing components and/or aserver in the event of an internet failure. According to preferredembodiments, the device 210 includes a power supply back up to providefor suitable time of operation, such as, for example, an hour ofoperating time, in the event of a power failure. In addition, the device210 preferably is programmable to designate alternate products forassociation with a particular pump. For example, in the event of aspecific pump failure, according to some embodiments, a productcomponent may be moved to another pump. According to alternateembodiments, the device 210 may be configured with an alternate “empty”pump space, and may have a pump that is provided in the space but whichis not connected to deliver a component. The alternate pump may beassigned a location and may be activated should one of the other pumpsfail. In the case of a failure of one of the other pumps, the line maybe switched over to the alternate pump and the alternate pump may bedesignated in place of the pump it is replacing.

As discussed herein one preferred embodiment for providing components isin a container configured as a bag. The bag is configured to allowdispensing of content therefrom, while minimizing the empty space in thebag that would otherwise be taken up by air and potentially oxidize orruin the component.

The system, apparatus and method, preferably include or are integratedfor use with a beauty treatment preview and selection component. Asdiscussed herein, the individual may tailor the beauty treatment, suchas a haircut, color, style or effects by preselecting and participatingin a preview process. The preview process preferably includes a dynamicselection process by which the user, or preferably a user and atechnician that is to apply the treatment, may go through a simulatedapplication of the desired treatment through selection menus andoptions. In addition, the system, method and apparatus provide the userand technician with the ability to display the hair of an individual ona display screen. This may be done by taking a photographic image of anindividual on a white, black, blue or green screen for display, andcapturing and storing the image. The image may be manipulated to removebackground that is not the hair of the individual. A representation ofhair treatment selection and effects, including stages of a haircut tobe done, may be carried out by manipulating the image presented on thescreen. The image is presented on the display utilizing a filteredtranslucent overlay that is generated in conjunction with the proposedor selected manipulation to be applied to the user's hair image. In thismanner, there is not merely an overlay of a hair style that issuperimposed on the individual's image, but rather, the technician orindividual, may go through steps of cutting, on the representativescreen display, to remove portions of hair in particular areas thereof.The ability to undo a cut portion also is provided, as is the ability tostart over with all or some of the selections made. For example, if thecolor is correct and the cut is not, the color may be saved as anoption, while the cut may be redone. Effects also may be saved orredone. The final image may be saved. Preferably, the correspondingcomponents are associated with the inputs entered for the individualclient/user as well as the selection options so as to provide thesolution in terms of products that may be dispensed and/or formulated toachieve the desired result and effects.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the selectionoptions and controls for controlling the apparatus 210 preferably may bepresented through an application, or app. The application is designed tooperate in connection with a processor and preferably the application iscomprised of stored instructions for instructing the processor toimplement operations, such as communications with the apparatus 210,with a server, or with other devices, including other applications onthe user's device or other device. According to a preferred embodiment,the application includes a communication component, which preferably issoftware configured to facilitate communications, which according to apreferred embodiment, as depicted in the schematic illustration of FIG.8, takes place through or using a web service 700 that is hosted on thecloud server 701. The communication preferably takes place through theInternet 702 (though other communication links may be utilized forcommunication). The consumer application preferably is installed on acomputing device 704 of the consumer, which, for example may be atablet, personal computer, phone, PDA or other electronic communicationdevice. The computing device 704 preferably has, or has linked with it,a camera, or has a capability to store a photograph thereon from acamera. The consumer application may record and store data, includingconsumer generated or provided data. This data may then be sent to aserver 701, and preferably from the server to the machine or device 210.Preferably, Modbus to PLC communication (object linking and embedding(OLE) for process control), may be used to provide control operationsfor the device 210 that is located at the salon. In addition tocommunicating with and exchanging data with the consumer device andapplication, the programmable logic controller preferably is programmedwith instructions to deliver or to receive instructions from the controlmechanism of the machine or apparatus 210. The PLC, for example, mayprovide instructions to perform one or more tasks, including, producinga custom formulation, making an appointment for the customer/user. Aconsumer application or app preferably is provides for use inconjunction with smartphones, and preferably for smartphone, e.g.,i-phone and android type, operating systems. According to a preferredembodiment the user uses the app by first downloading the app. Oncedownloaded, consumer/user selects option of location finder, selects thelanguage desired, and next completes a user profile (for example,including name, age, gender, ethnic heritage, environmental factors-bodycomposition and other useful information that a technician or stylistmay utilize to provide customization of beauty products, including haircoloring products). Preferably, the profile also includes hair conditioninformation, such as density, shine, suppleness, strength andelasticity, as well as scalp condition or conditions (e.g., normal,tight, dry, flaky, irritated, itchy, sore). The consumer app preferablyis provided with information that allows the user to make an at-homecomparison of what they see in a mirror to that of a healthy hair andscalp of a person of the same age. These depictions may be generated fordisplay on the user's computing device. The user also proceeds bydetermining hair color (e.g., natural level, current level, desiredlevel, desired tone, previous chemical services, solid or dimensional).Preferably, the user uploads a photo showing the user's head and hair.

With the user information provided to the app, the user may then use themanipulation tools provided with the application in order to modify theuser's own hair shape or select another style, determining to skip ormake saves of these selections for later use or consideration. The usermay be presented with a menu and may scroll through the menu choices andoptions, discarding or skipping some, while selecting or saving others.The user may elect to “try on” the desired selected color, andaccordingly, may make adjustments to the presentation to the user by arefinement selection options, which according to preferred embodiments,may include a slide level or dial option that the user may manipulate onthe screen using the user's computing component (e.g., such as the touchscreen of a tablet). For example, a slide level selection option bar maybe presented to the user to make changes to the color level by sliding alever to affect the level of color shown. In addition, the user make mayadjustments to the tone presented by making a manipulation of an inputoption, such as, by dialing a level to affect the tone. Other selectionoptions appearing on the display, preferably, a touch screen display,may include a side level, dial/wheel or other suitable input andselection graphic or element. The manipulation preferably is received asan input and is processed with a processor of one of the computingdevices (e.g., salon server, or salon network operator server, e.g., OPCserver or cc server) to provide a corresponding formulation (preferablyusing the components of the dispensing device). The user therefore hasgone through the app and makes selections and options to providesresultant haircut, color, style or effect, or combinations of these in asaved location of the app, or the user's device, and preferably, alsotransmits the information to the OPC server. In addition, the apppreferably provides the user with the ability to make a selection of asalon destination locator (and to request an appointment). The salondestination locator preferably identifies salons that are subscribers orparticipants in the app program (e.g., a salon that is part of thenetwork of salons). In addition, the app may consider the location ofthe client through the client's network usage, location-identifying chipon the client's computing device, information entered by the client(e.g., address) or other identifying element. The app may provide theclient with the nearest salon that is part of the salon network usingthe app. The user may even locate a salon of the salon networks anywherein the world and make an appointment. In addition, the app includes atranslator, so, in the event the user is making selections, theselections and descriptions may be provided to salon personnel who ismore familiar with a language other than that of the customer, or doesnot understand the language of the customer. The translator may beconfigured with software that resides as part of the app oralternatively, may be a translation engine where the software is removefrom the app, and processing takes place through a transmission from theapp to a processing location (such as a translation server or salonnetwork server). Likewise, selections or recommendations from the salonpersonnel (such as a technician who does not understand the language ofthe customer) may be translated to the language of the customer (or alanguage that the customer may understand). The apparatus 210 preferablymay be configured to receive information relating to a client, andprovide the client or salon visited by the client with the appropriateformulations saved and associated with that client. The dispensingapparatus 210 may be utilized in salons in different parts of the world,or different locations within a country, so that a user, while travelingor staying at a different location, may receive the benefit ofconsistent product formulations. According to preferred embodiments, theclient profile is stored for retrieval, and preferably on a cloud serverso the salon, technician or operator of the dispensing and distributionsystem may retrieve the user's history in the salon app and work withthat user.

According to a preferred embodiment, the app is used in conjunction withthe dispensing apparatus 210, and the salons provided from which to makea selection for an appointment are those that utilize the apparatus 210.The app therefore, preferably is coordinated with the dispensingapparatus 210 to provide selections available to the consumer based onthe hair color components that are utilized in conjunction with theapparatus 210. In addition, the app may be branded with a particularbrand, and the salon may be designated for use of that brand, so theconsumer/user selects based on branded components being represented forcolor and effects. The salon apparatus 210 preferably includes brandedcomponents that may correspond with the app selections presented to theconsumer. Alternatively, the app may be unbranded with regard tocomponent hair colorants (or products) available for selection, and theuser makes selections without regard to what component product brand isto be used at the salon. In fact, the app may be programmed to generateone or more advertisements for one or more brands. The control mechanismof the apparatus 210 may be programmed to dispense a product thatcorresponds with the selection made by the user, and based on the userinput. The control mechanism may include or be linked to operate with aprogrammable logic controller (PLC). The PLC may receive instructionsfrom the dispensing device, or, alternatively, from a remotecommunication device, such as a server or computing device using an app,such as the salon app. The PLC may be programmed to dispense beautyproduct components from the respectively associated bags in accordancewith communications of instructions received.

The app may further be configured with software that providesinformation to the user about hair care, and learning options for theuser. This may be generated at a central server location andcommunicated or linked with the app for association with all app users,or in some instances, one or more appropriate users where theinformation is specific to that user or those select users. For example,the app may provide the user with information to learn about customformulations. These custom formulation learning presentations or careinformation preferably are based on the consumer information, so, if aconsumer with a particular type of hair or scalp is using the app, theconsumer/user may be provided with pertinent information for that user.The custom formulations may relate to washing and treating hair,nourishing and rejuvenating the scalp, protecting and preserving hairand scalp, styling and finishing the hair. The app may also generateinformation regarding appointment confirmation (e.g., such as, forexample, a map-drop pin, day, time, directions), which may becoordinated with a calendar application that is present on the user'scomputing device or is used by the consumer/user.

The application preferably continues to operate when the user reachesthe salon. Preferably, at the time of the user visit or preferably priorto the user's arrival at the designated salon (a salon of the networklocation of the designated salons), once an appointment is confirmed,client profile data is downloaded into the salon database for thecontinuation of the consultation and completion of service.

The salon preferably includes the app features that the user accesses,plus additional features provided in the preferred salon professionalapp or salon app. The salon app preferably includes software configuredwith instructions to record and process information, and preferably, isused with a communication component (e.g., Wi-Fi, Internet, VPN), andcommunicates to the OPC server (or other computer or server, such as thecc server 806, FIG. 9). According to a preferred embodiment, the salonapp includes a consultation engine that generates a procedure throughwhich the technician or salon operator may provide a virtual style, cut,color and/or effect to the individual. According to preferredembodiment, the salon application directs the salon user through apreferred consultation, which involves first, taking a green screenphotograph of the individual client. A separation visual is thengenerated, as depicted in FIG. 15. The separation visual is a separategraphic image of the user's hair 1039 a (FIG. 15), which may bemanipulated apart from the other portions of the user, such as theuser's face 2011 (FIG. 14). Therefore, the separation graphic providesfor effects to be generated and viewed.

The salon app then provides tools so that the stylist, utilizing acomputing component, and preferably a touch screen, manipulates the hairof an individual, for example, by playing with hair shape (e.g., bangs,length). The stylist may use the salon app tools to manipulate whatclient already selected or saved, or may keep the same selected by theuser).

The salon professional app provides the capability for the technician tophotograph the client's own hair and scalp and demonstrate visually howrecommended products will restore a healthy and youthful appearance tothe hair and scalp. For example, according to a preferred embodiment,the salon app generates a display of a side by side visual imagerepresentation (which may include the actual image of the client'sscalp), focusing on the attributes of youthful hair. According to apreferred embodiment, the app provides the attributes in steps, such asin 5 steps to focus on desired attributes, such as, for example:density, diameter, luster, suppleness, strength and brilliant color.According to a preferred embodiment, the stylist may implement the salonapp to further offer options to the client. For example, the stylist mayoffer option A and option B. There may be options that correspond toformula, and these may be referred to as formula options. The formulaoptions may be provided on the screen and applied to the representationof the user for selection (with the differences being displayed on thehair of the image of the user). The formula options may provide aneffect, color or other treatment. In addition, there may be techniquesoptions provided on a techniques screen to display options forimplementing a technique on the user's hair, skin or scalp. The salonapp preferably provides the user, such as a stylist of the salon, withthe ability to perform image manipulation. The stylist may cut and stylehair on a computing device, such as, for example a tablet (e.g., aniPad®), which includes being able to apply a hair color application tothe image. The stylist will be able to utilize the app in conjunctionwith a computing device to be able to determine color for a client hairwith a recommended color or create a color from a color pallet. The appalso may provide options for the salon stylist in the form of stylerecommendations, which may include demonstration and showing of newstyles to stylists, as well as provide color recommendations, that mayinclude demonstrations and showings of new trends in color and formulas.According to a preferred embodiment, the application or app includessoftware that instructs a processor to carry out manipulations to thedisplayed image (which may be the processor of the user device on whichthe user is viewing the displayed representations, or may be a processorof local or remove server). The manipulations, such as colors,attributes and other depictions appearing on the display and that theuser or salon personnel may control through manipulation and selection,preferably are processed and displayed, and also are associated with aformulation that may be saved and provided to the dispensing apparatus.In addition, the saved selections may be associated with aninstructional engine that includes software to provide instruction withgraphics to the salon technician. In addition, features discussed hereinin connection with viewing progressions of a hair manipulation, such as,a cut or style, also may be generated using the app software.

Referring to FIG. 9, there is illustrated a schematic representation ofa preferred implementation of a system according to the invention.According to a preferred embodiment, the system includes client featurecomponent portion 795, data storage and communications component portion796, salon component portion 797 and network salon system providercomponent portion 798. Preferably, applications are associated for usewith each respective component portion 795,796,797,798, andcommunications across component portions 795,796,797,798 are done toprovide the user and salon personnel (e.g., technicians, stylists andthe like) with information that the consumer user/client may work withusing the client app 801 and that the salon may work with using a salonapp on a computing component used by the stylist, such as, for example,the stylist pad 805. According to a preferred embodiment depicted, thesystem may be implemented using a cloud server 800 for storage ofinformation. The salon network operator may control the system throughthe data and communications component portion 796 and the cloud centeror server 800. The salon network operator may be an organization orcompany separate from the salon and user (e.g., according to oneembodiment, such as Colorculture™, represented as “cc” in FIG. 9).According to one embodiment, the salon network operator is a provider ofproducts to the salon and products that may be used to implement styles,colors and effects in connection with the selections of users made bythe user app, or by salon personnel using the salon app. The salonnetwork operator may control the use of the by the users/clients as wellas salons, for example, where the salons are subscribers or designatedsalons certified or otherwise permitted to use the network andassociated applications. According to one preferred embodiment, thecloud center or server 800 may serve as a central repository andcommunication center that may be operated by a salon network provider.For example, the cc server 806 may be a salon network operator and maycontrol the types of data that are relayed and provide instructionsthrough software and selections so that the cloud server may pushnotifications to users of the client app 801 (which preferably isoperated on a client device, e.g., a tablet). The communications alsomay be made to the salon 807 (e.g., such as a salon computer or server).For example, the salon may be advised of new trends and optionsavailable, and preferably, the options are consistent with the products,such as the beauty product components and the products that may be madeby dispensing the beauty product components from a dispensing apparatus,such as the dispensing apparatus 210. According to preferredembodiments, the system is configured to provide options andimplementations in conjunction with the dispensing device or apparatus210. Preferably, the dispensing device or apparatus 210 may receivecommunications to dispense product for use consistent with selectionsand options of the user or salon personnel that are made using theirrespective applications or apps. For example, selections of hair colorfor the user/client hair may be translated to a beauty product dispensedby the dispensing apparatus 210, which, for example, may be located at asalon. Alternatively, the formulation may be made available to the userfor purchase from the salon network operator through the “cc corp”retail component 808, which may also be associated with a supportcomponent 809 and product reorder component 810. Each component mayinclude software configured with instructions to receive requests forproducts and/or solutions and support, as well as to generate orders forproducts. Preferably, each component also includes a computingcomponent, such as, for example, a hardware processor, memory andstorage media, through which the software instructions may be carriedout. For example, where the client or user has been introduced to, orrecommended to use a custom formulated shampoo, and that client desiresto reorder the product, the product reorder component may implementreorder functions such as, for example, reminders or automatic reorderand fulfillment of product. This may be done through the cc server 806,preferably in association with the client app 801.

According to one embodiment, clients or users may utilize an app orapplication 801 through their own respective personal computing devices,such as, for example, a tablet 704 (see FIG. 8). The client or user appor application 801 preferably is configured with software containinginstructions to receive information and push information to the cloudcenter 800. The information provided by the user through the user app801 or indirectly by the user's use of the user app 801 is preferablymade available to selective salons, such as for example stylists ortechnicians of the salon that the user may visit and/or engage toprovide a hair treatment (or other beauty treatment). The salon, forexample, desiring to use the applications and system, may purchase orlease a dispensing apparatus 210, and integrate the user app 801 andcommunications of data between the user and salon capabilities throughthe use of the salon app on the stylist pad 805. The management of thecommunications may be handled through a server, such as a cloud serveror center 800 and/or the cc server 806. A website 811 may be providedfor use by a client or customer. The website may be used to handlecommunications (similar to the client app or application) and mayinclude features that allow the client to make appointments viewpromotions. Clients will also be able to book appointments, find anetworked salon location and buy retail from the network salon operator,such as the “cc corp” retail 808 supported by the network salon systemprovider, as represented by the component portion 798. The website 811also may serve as a portal to the cc server 805 and features associatedwith the network salon operator, such as purchase of retail products andsupport. The client app 801 preferably is configured to provide the useror client with the ability to make selections using the app 801 to buyretail, lookup salons, make appointments and update the client profile.For example, the client may utilize the app 801 to locate the nearestnetwork salon operator system salon (e.g., such as a Color Culture™system salon) anywhere in the world where the salons are located, andmake an appointment. The client app 801 also is configured to receiveinformation and provide the client with the ability to see recommendedproducts and new styles, which may be based on the client profile,and/or which may be based on data collected based on other clients andusers, as well as salons, as to what are the trends, popular choices andcurrently desired styles, colors, effects. The client app 801 also mayimplement alerts, including through geo-fencing (where a client is inproximity to a salon). Social media sites (e.g., such as, for example,Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and others) may be integrated into theclient app 801 to work in conjunction therewith, and may allow featuresthe client has selected to be shared or communicated with others, aswell as for the salon to social network with the user. According to oneembodiment, the client app 801 may include an integrated client loyaltyprogram feature, which accesses the data relating to client purchasesand salon visits and provides a corresponding reward according to areward system. The app 801 also may be configured to integrate with thesalon appointment schedule or calendar to show availability ofappointments and personnel and permit the client to make an appointment.The app 801 also may provide reviews of different colors, effects,styles as well as salons to provide the user with further information.The app 801 also may be used to generate text messages, such as,reminders for appointments, reordering of products, or to advise of anew feature or product that is available.

The salon that utilizes the system, preferably will be able to runreports, reorder products and make payments right from a salon portalassociated with the salon component portion 797 of the system. The salonalso will also be able to look at trends through data made available bya server that provides information based on data collected and reportedfor users of products and/or salons utilization of products, styles, andtrends. According to a preferred embodiment, the cc server 806 processesdata to generate reports on trends, which may include purchase and usetrends for products, style trends, as well as other salon and userselected options. The cc server 806 may include as part of the cc server806, or in association therewith, a report server 812 that generatesreports which may be used by the salon network operator (cc in thisexample) to tailor advertising and promotions to what customerscurrently desire. The salon network operator also may communicate to thesalon the trend information to alert the salon personnel as to morelikely sales opportunities and suggestions that the customer may be morelikely to accept. In addition, the salon also will have access to aneducation system to certify a stylist to use the cc system 814, whichmay be implemented as a salon app on the salon pad 805, or othercomputing devices of the salon 807. The salon 807 also may dispense froma dispensing device, such as, the dispensing apparatus 210, and/or sellproducts at the salon, where the salon serves as a point of sale 813 forproducts. The cc system 814 preferably provides the salon with theability to receive instruction, demonstrate representative effects forapplications of beauty products (such as hair colorants), styles, cutsand effects, and deliver the result through the implementation of customformulations that correspond with the selected representativeimplementations. According to a preferred embodiment, a dispensingapparatus 210 is linked for communication to receive corresponding datafrom the salon app, for example, operating on the stylist pad 805, orfrom the client app 801. The mechanism utilized for communicationsbetween the selection source and the dispensing apparatus preferably maybe a server, such as, for example, the cloud center or server 800, thecc server 806, or may take place through the cc system 814. Preferably,regardless of how the communication takes place, the client profile isupdated to reflect the selections and applications, as well asformulation dispensed and/or applied to the client, as well as style,cut, effects and other information. The cc server 806 and report server812 preferably also receive the information and may aggregateinformation to generate reports based on any variable, such as, mostwidely used color, or most widely used color by customers having a priorhair condition (e.g., blond hair), or customers located in a particulargeographic region. The data may be stored locally on the cc server 806,or on a separate data repository, such as, for example a cloud server orcenter 800.

The salon app preferably is implemented on a stylist computing device,such as a stylist pad 805. The salon app provides the salon personnelwith the ability to image the user and implement steps to provide aresponsive representation that permits a haircut to be represented on anindividual and allows the cut to be displayed by simulating the cut asif the stylist was using a tool, such as scissors on the person's actualhair. A depiction of a representative cut or styling by allowing themanipulation of the user's depicted hair to remove as much or as littlehair as desired, and in locations desired, and to have the imagedepicted on the display represent the progression of a style or haircutbeing carried out on the person's hair depicted on the display. However,in accordance with the preferred embodiments, the depiction is carriedout prior to manipulation of the persons' physical hair.

According to a preferred embodiment, the app or application is depictedin use with a tablet computing device and screen displays are shown inFIGS. 10-25. The depictions may be on the tablet of a client or user, oralternately, may be on the stylist pad (such as the pad 805 depicted inFIG. 9). Although some portions of the app or application may not besuitable for initialization by the consumer user (such as imaging theuser on a green screen background), the app generally is utilized in asimilar manner, whether by the stylist or client. Referring to FIG. 10,there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of a screen display 1010for the application or app, depicting a language selection screen 1011.The screen display 1010 preferably is shown as part of a tablet 1013,though the screen display 1010 may be provided on another computingdevice, such as, for example, a phone 1110 (see e.g., FIG. 26). Thelanguage selection screen 1011 presents selection options 1014 for theuser to choose a language for communications and displays conducted withthe app. The app preferably is configured with a translation engine thatrelays the communications in the language selected by the user todiscernable information (such as another language) that may be read andevaluated by the server and processor that processes and stores theinformation. Although English is shown as the language in which thelanguage selection options 1014 appear, the language selection screen1011 preferably is configured to depict languages in their respectivecharacters (e.g., Chinese). According to some embodiments, upon making alanguage selection, the language selection options 1014 may appear inthe already selected language, rather than the language characters orlanguage represented by the selection options.

Referring to FIG. 11, an exemplary embodiment of a screen display 1016depicting a user profile entry screen 1017 is shown. Fields are providedon the screen 1017 into which a user may enter information that thesystem uses to evaluate and present options for the user, including toprovide appropriate formulations to achieve desired results, such asdesired effects, colors, textures skin/scalp treatments, based on theuser profile information. User profile information, optionally, may beentered at a salon, e.g., by a salon technician, and may be reviewed forconformation at the salon. (Screen 3) Referring to FIG. 12, there isshown an exemplary screen display 1020 depicting a scalp conditionscreen 1021. A first scalp image 1022 is depicted on the scalp conditionscreen 1021. The first scalp image 1022, preferably, is a representationof the scalp condition of a user. The scalp condition representation ofthe user's scalp may be assigned a category type and the image or type,or both, may be stored in the user profile. The first scalp image 1022may be an actual photograph that the user has taken and uploaded of theuser's actual scalp, or alternatively, the image 1022 may be a selectionthat the user has made based on a menu of options, or a selection ofimage options that may be generated to appear on the display of theuser's computing device or tablet 1013. A second scalp image 1023representing the desired scalp condition (e.g., a healthy scalp) of aperson of similar age, gender and race, is depicted on the scalpcondition screen 1021. The healthy scalp represents the target for theuser's scalp condition, such as, for example, what the desired conditionwould look like after appropriate treatment has been applied to theuser's scalp. The user or individual therefore may have the user profilestored, from which considerations of scalp condition, when appropriatefor selection of products or components to use, or mix as part of adispensed product, may be taken into account. For example, the exampleimage of a healthy scalp 1023 may be generated in connection with theuser information from the user profile, and the generation of the scalpimage may be based on things such as user age, demographic, and otherphysical and/or genetic properties or characteristics of that user.

Referring to FIG. 13, there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of ascreen display 1025 depicting a user photo upload screen 1026.Preferably, a user may take a photograph and upload the image 1027 tothe system server (e.g., such as an OPC or cloud server 701 shown inFIG. 8, or cc server 806 shown in FIG. 9). The image 1027 preferably isstored as part of the user profile, and may be used by the system tomanipulate the effects, colors, styles, cuts and treatments when usingthe app. The image 1027 preferably is made available to the user,through use of the app, and preferably also is available to the salon sothe salon technician may use the image to manipulate it and apply astyle, color, cut or other treatment or effect, and store the image. Thesalon personnel may manipulate and store a new version of the image thatis a treated image depicting a hair treatment that the user may select.

According to a preferred embodiment, the process may be carried out infront of the individual or client user, at the salon, or may be doneprior to the client user coming to the salon. As an alternate option,the salon technician may manipulate the image to apply particularmodifications to the client user's hair and may make the proposedmodified image available to the user as a recommendation. The user'sapplication may include a link or message that the image has been postedfor the user to access. Alternately, the client user may deselect theoption, so only the client user may make manipulations (prior to cominginto the salon for the user's appointment), or so that the salon maymanipulate the image (so as to prepare for the user's visit or scheduledappointment) but not transmit it or make it available for access to theclient user's application. The individual's user image is preferablymanipulated to depict the user face and hair on a green screenbackground.

According to a preferred embodiment, the user's hair is manipulated sothat it may be changed, and may be a manipulatable variable. Accordingto one preferred embodiment, a green screen process may be utilized togenerate the separate image portion (the user's hair) that may bemanipulated apart from the user's face. FIG. 14 shows an exemplaryembodiment of a screen display 1030 depicting an image 2009 of theindividual 2010, where the individual 2010 is displayed on a greenscreen 1031 appearing as a green background. The image 2009 of theindividual 2010 preferably is stored as data, which may be a localstorage (on the computing device on which the image was input or taken),or may be uploaded to the salon network server (such as the cc server806 shown in FIG. 9), or both. The individual's hair 1039 preferably isprovided as a separate image, and, according to a preferred embodiment,may be depicted on a green screen background, separate and apart fromthe client's face and body. As illustrated in FIG. 15 a screen display1037 depicts an image 1038 on a green screen 1041 showing the individualuser or client's hair 1039 a, the hair 1039 a being depicted apart fromthe client's face 2011 and body 2012 (see FIG. 14), the hair 1039 abeing provided on a green background 1041. One preferred process forproducing the image of the hair separate from the client's face 2011involves placing a green cape on the client (which preferably matchesthe green screen background 1031,1041) and positioning a green face mask(which also preferably matches the green screen background) in front ofthe client's face 2011. The image of the hair 1039 may then be taken,and that may be designated to serve as a manipulatable image. Themanipulatable hair image 1039 a preferably is joined together with theimage of the client's face 2011. The resultant image therefore, includesan image of the client, but where the hair image 1039 a is amanipulatable variable that may be modified to correspond with anddisplay a desired treatment or other effect. One preferred embodimentstores the manipulatable hair image 1039 a separately from the otherimage portion (i.e., the background 1041, the individual's face 2011 andbody 2012). Manipulations may be made to the client's depicted hair 1039a to try on different colors, effects and cuts (as discussed herein).The hair image 1039 a preferably is saved with the manipulations (whichmay be permanently to a file or in temporary storage as a computer file)and the image is combined with the face image of the individual toprovide an image of the individual with the hair that is manipulated todisplay a representation of the desired effect, treatment, style or cut.In this manner, changes are made to the variable image portion while theclient face, body and background may remain unchanged.

As discussed in connection with the preferred embodiment, the client'simage is photographed on a green screen background (at the salon or bythe user). The manipulation of the user image to separate the hair image1039 a preferably is carried out using the green screen background, andimaging the individual on the background with the face mask and cape, asdiscussed. Alternatively, the separation of the user hair image may bedone through a computing application. The computing application may beconfigured to evaluate the pixels forming the image, and determine wherepixels change densities or coloration, and may attempt to approximatethe user's hair profile, and apply an instruction to change the pixelsoutside of the profile to green (or other color, e.g., gray or neutral).The app or application, such as, for example, the salon app used by asalon personnel, may be used to capture an image of an individual, suchas a client, for manipulation of that image to apply a process to theindividual's hair. The image is taken (see e.g., FIG. 13 and FIGS. 14and 15). According to a preferred embodiment, an image adjustment may beapplied to the image of the individual or the individual's hair image(e.g., 1039 a). The application or app preferably includes an imageadjustment mechanism with instructions to alter the image condition inorder to provide a natural tonality. Preferably, the natural tonalitycorresponds with a predetermined color temperature, and more preferably,a color temperature of 3000 to 3500 degrees K. The image condition levelmay be presented on the screen and provide options for altering theimage color level (or tonality of the color) to a natural condition (ifthe image color level is not already a natural condition). For example,where the image has been taken in incandescent room lighting, and has agenerally yellow or warm cast to it (e.g., 2700 degrees K), the imagemay be adjusted with the image adjustment mechanism which the user mayselect (e.g., from a slide switch button on the screen) to alter theimage from its initial color condition to a preferred natural condition(e.g., for example, from 2700K to 3500 degrees K). The adjusted imagemay then be saved and provide the image from which manipulations aremade using the application software, as described and shown herein. Oncethe image is adjusted to a natural color or tone condition, then a levelvalue is assigned to the person's hair. This is done by establishing anatural level for the natural hair of the individual, which is theindividual or client's hair as it exists naturally, without any appliedtreatment (i.e., without even a previously applied treatment, so forexample, if the individual has naturally blond hair, and the hair iscolored to black in the image, then the natural level will be based onthe blond hair (regardless of the existing present color, black). Thelevel preferably is assigned a level value from a scale value, which inthe United States, corresponds to a scale value of from between 1 to 10,and in Europe, corresponds to a scale value of from between 1 to 12(although the values from 1 to 5, for both the U.S. and Europe may trackone another, the end of the scale or higher values generally aredifferent, and not correspondent). Preferably, the software isprogrammed with instructions to use one scale or the other and theinformation is processed to provide a result that corresponds with theuse of either scale (which a user may preselect when making initialsettings for the application software, or may alter based on the initialdeterminations and assignments for a particular client/individual). Inaddition, a level translation component may be provided for the softwareso that in the event a U.S. initiated client profile is called up foruse at a salon in Europe, the software is able to make the adjustments.In addition to assigning the client hair a natural level (e.g., in theU.S. from 1 to 10), the actual level existing at the time of thephotograph is assigned. The actual level is established based on thelevel of the client hair as imaged (preferably, after tonal correctionor adjustment to a natural condition, as discussed herein). For example,the naturally blond client with black hair would have an actual levelvalue assigned, using the same level scales 1 to 10 or 1 to 12, asdiscussed, based on the black hair. A color and level may be on theperson's hair from a treatment (e.g., treatment prior to being imaged).The actual level value takes that into account. At this point,therefore, the system has received from selections and assignment oflevels, a natural condition level and an actual condition level for theclient/individual. The application preferably displays the hair image onthe display screen, and provides the user, such as the salon personnel,with the ability to slide the level control, such as, for example, aslide bar displayed on the screen, to scroll up or down a selectorgraphic on the screen display to reach a desired level and have thatdesired level displayed on the screen. For example, the person's hairimage may lighten or darken. Darkening is represented in a saturation ofpigment to represent darker hair. Lightening is visually exposing theundertone that an observer would see if the hair were actuallylightened. The tones go from red at lower levels, e.g., like 2-4, toorange, gold and yellow as the levels go lighter and higher, e.g., to 10or 12. By manipulation of the image in this manner, the display of theimage exposes the undertone of the hair at that desired level. Theselection therefore may be made including the undertone at the desiredlevel.

According to a preferred embodiment, once any prior color adjustment hasbeen made, and the levels (natural level value and actual level value)are selected and stored, the color selection may be made and applied todisplay color selections to the hair image to provide a display of analtered color hair image (see e.g., FIG. 17 and the color selectionscreen 1057). The user, such as, for example, the salon stylist, maymanipulate the individual's hair image on the display screen by using acontrol on the screen display, such as a dial, to select or dial thedesired enhancing or correcting tones to establish a desired visual endresult (which may for example be to overlay color filters on the hair inorder to balance and adjust visible undertones at a desired level, whichmay be done based on selections and manipulations on the screen displayand through corresponding instructions provided in the software inconnection with the processing of the inputs and selections). Forexample, if the stylist sees orange undertones and wants red, then theselections may be made to manipulate the hair image on the displayscreen to add red tones. Preferably, the application software isprogrammed with instructions to compare the levels assigned to the hairof a person, and compare the selection made as the desired or targethair color, and provide a formula solution that corresponds with thedesired target. The software preferably is programmed with instructionsto assign an expected undertone to a hair level based on the inputinformation, such as the tonal levels for that person. The formulatherefore, preferably produces the resultant selected image made on thedisplay (e.g., at the color selection screen 1057). The dispensingdevice 210 may be instructed to dispense a corresponding formula, asneeded or desired.

The individual or client user as well as the salon technician may usethe app to manipulate the hair 1039 displayed in the image 1039 a, andpreferably the manipulation is done with the user face 2011 and bodyportion 2012 present as part of the displayed representation, the hairimage 1039 a also being a part of the displayed representation. Oneexample of a preferred manipulation involves applying a particular colorto the hair. Referring to FIG. 16, there is illustrated an exemplaryembodiment of a screen display 1045 depicting a shape modificationscreen 1046. Options for hair shape are presented to the user, and aselection menu 1052 is provided for providing alternative options forselection and application to depict the shape on the user, including onthe user to show the user's face 2011 and body 2012 with the hairdepicted as the selected hair shape option. The app preferably displaysoptions based on the user image and the green screen segregation of thehair, as discussed herein, to produce on the display 1045 amanipulatable image or image portion of the user's hair 1039 a (seee.g., FIG. 15). The shape modification screen 1046 shows a firstselection option 1050 and associated shape image 1039 b that appears inthe center of the selection options menu 1052. Although three shapeselection option images 1051,1053,1054 are shown on the shapemodification screen 1046, there may be additional shapes that the usermay select. These additional shapes may be presented to the user througha menu or scrolling option, such as, for example, scrolling right orleft of the center shape image 1051 of the selection options menu 1052.The center shape image 1051 is shown as the first selection option 1050which preferably is bordered by a selection box, and a save option isincluded for saving the selected image, which in the embodiment isdepicted as the save button 1055. The selected shape may be saved, andthe user may proceed to make further manipulations to the user hairimage 1039 b. For example, the user may apply a color change to theselection option image 1051 for which a shape has been selected.

As shown in FIG. 17, a screen display 1056 is illustrated depicting acolor selection screen 1057. A color selection menu 1058 is provided anddisplays potential hair color selection options for the user, whichpreferably include a plurality of colors, which according to someembodiments may be depicted as a color wheel representing hair of arepresentative color. The user may make selections of the color optionsand may apply these options to the image 1059 in the main image window1060. The user's hair image 1039 c may be changed on the color selectionscreen 1057 as the user elects to apply a color option from the menu1058. (Although the user's hair image 1039 c is shown with the hair fromthe selection option image 1053 (FIG. 16), the selection of a selectionoption image 1051 and hair image 1039 b, may be represented on the colorselection screen 1057 when applying color manipulations, where theselection option image 1051 was selected prior to making selections onthe color selection screen 1057.) The user may scroll through and makechanges to the color of the hair image 1039 c. A secondary image window1062 is shown to depict the user's previous or current color, such as ahair image 1039 a,1039 b (with a cut applied, for example if theselection option image 1051 was made), to serve as a reference to thechange being depicted in the main image window 1060. A user maydesignate a hair color selection and save that selection, using the savebutton 1061. According to an alternate embodiment, the user may select aplurality of options being considered, and save the options (e.g., suchas, for example, three colors). The user may therefore manipulate thehair image 1039 c so that the hair displayed represents the shapeselected (as depicted in the image 1039 b of FIG. 16) as well as thecolor desired selected at the color selection screen 1057.

A cut option may be provided to the user, or may be provided only forthe salon app (for the professional to use). The cut options provide arepresentation of the cut process and allows for dynamic manipulation ofthe user's hair through single cutting strokes to be made to the hairrepresentation. The cut process may be simulated and displayed to depictthe actual cut. At points along the cut process, the salon technicianmay receive user feedback, for example, where the user is viewing theimage while the technician is carrying out the cutting process on theimage on the display. The application provides for the ability to undo achange made to the hair, so that the cutting may be redone from anypoint previously. The application provides for the touch screen of atouch screen display to be manipulated by the salon technician bytracing a finger or stylus over the area of the touch screen showing theuser's hair image that a modification is to be made. The cuttingpreferably corresponds to the area traced over, and the tracing appliescutting to that area. The cutting may be applied as a light cut, by asingle tracing, and additional cutting may be shown corresponding withadditional tracings of the area. Referring to FIG. 18, a cut selectiontool menu 1070 is illustrated depicting a plurality of tools 1071 forapplying a representation of a cut process to the hair 1039 d of theperson depicted in the image. The tools 1071 are provided formanipulation of the hair image, such as, for example, any of thoseimages 1039 a, 1039 b,1039 c (to which a prior manipulation has beenmade) to apply a cut to the image displayed as the user's hair 1039 d.The cut is shown in FIG. 19 as depicting the hair image portion 1039 eof the existing haircut or shape 1039 a that has been removed (e.g., bycutting or applying a cutting tool) in an alternate rendition, shown ina ghost-like representation on the screen 1075. The cut is applied tothe hair image 1039 a to provide a new shape or cut 1039 b to the hair.The image of the person is shown with the manipulated hair image 1039 bin solid form, and preferably with a color option applied thereto. Thetools 1071 may be implemented to modify the image 1039 d (FIG. 18) fromthe original hair image 1039 a to the resultant haircut image 1039 b,and preferably, the hair image 1039 d is dynamically correspondent withthe application of the cutting tool, so that the image on the displayscreen 1075 is presented in a form adjusted for each application of atool. The user and stylist may view the process being applied to cut thehair as the hair is being manipulated to simulate a cut, so that at anypoint, the user or stylist may make changes or revert back. According toa preferred embodiment, the screen 1075 displays a representation ofhair treatment to the image on the screen 1075, including stages of ahaircut to be done by manipulating the hair image presented on thescreen. The haircut is represented on the individual 2010 depicted(showing the individual's face 2011 and body 2012) and which allows thecut to be displayed by simulating the cut as if the stylist was using atool, such as scissors on the person's actual hair. The manipulationallows for viewing of the depiction of a representative cut or stylingto be shown, where the operator, such as the stylist, may manipulate theuser's depicted hair to remove as much or as little hair as desired, andin locations desired, and to have the image depicted on the display 1075represent the progression of a style or haircut being carried out on theperson's hair depicted on the display 1075, so that the depiction iscarried out prior to the actual manipulation (e.g., cutting) of thepersons' physical hair. Alternatively, the manipulation depiction on thedisplay 1075 may be carried out at the salon as instruction and guidanceduring the process while actual cuts are being made (e.g., while theuser is receiving a haircut) to the user or individual's actual physicalhair (e.g., at the salon) so as to depict on the screen a potential nextstep or stage in the cutting process.

According to a preferred embodiment, the image of the person is takenusing a recording device, such as, for example, a camera (e.g., astand-alone camera, phone camera, or camera on a tablet). The imagepreferably includes the person's hair and face, and may also includepart of the upper body, e.g., shoulders, or part necessary to depict thehair in the image (e.g., such as those with longer hair). The imagepreferably is stored on a storage media, such as a hard drive, flashmemory or removable disk media. The image, if not taken on the tablet,phone or computing device that is running the application software, isuploaded so that it is available to the application or app software.This may involve uploading to the network salon server (e.g., the cloudserver 701, FIG. 8, and/or cc server 806, FIG. 9), a salon localcomputing device, or other computing device. Preferably, the photographis stored in association with, and as part of, a user profile. After theimage is captured and is available to the application, the imaged isprocessed by transforming the image. The transformation of the imageinvolves separating the hair from the face (and body portion if the bodyportion also is part of the image). Next, the hair image is processed byevaluating the hair image in view of a grayscale to determine agrayscale level for the hair image, and assigning a grayscale level tothe hair image. Assigning a grayscale level may be done manually bysalon personnel using the application, or with software of theapplication configured to process the image and based on a grayscalecomparison, assign to the image a preferred grayscale level. Once thedesired grayscale level is determined and assigned to that hair image,the image is assigned a tone. The tone assigned may be from a tonelevel, and may be done manually by the salon personnel, oralternatively, may be done by the application software, which includesinstructions for processing the image for tone assignment, by comparingthe image properties to a tone level scale and assigning a tone level tothe image. Subsequent to the initial establishment of the gray scalevalues, subsequent refinements or alterations to the grayscale value maybe made to lighten and or darken the hair, even where one or more othermanipulations have taken place. With the image being assigned both agrayscale level and a tone level, the brush brushstroke tool is used tomanipulate the hair to create the desired dimension. One exemplarydepiction of the usage of the brushstroke tool is shown in FIG. 18,applying it to the hair 1039 d of the user, wherein, FIG. 19 shows theresultant hair image 1039 b, with the simulated cut hair depicted on thescreen 1075 as the lightened or ghosted hair image 1039 e. The hairimage 1039 d depicted in FIG. 18 is transformed so that the hair image1039 b in FIG. 19 is shown with the simulated transformation made to thehair 1039 d on the screen using the tools 1071 (here the brushstroketool), with the manipulation shown as the transformed hair image 1039 band cut away or tool manipulated portion of the hair illustrated as thehair image 1039 e (a separately identifiable ghosted image). Forexample, once the tool is applied to the hair image 1039 d shown in FIG.18, then the desired dimension is processed and then separated out fromthe hair image 1039 d based on the manipulations made by the user usingthe tools 1071. The processor processes the input. The input preferablyis made using a computing device, such as, for example, a tablet with atouch screen, on which the user may trace with the user's finger orstylus or other input tool, to generate manipulations to the hair 1039 ddisplayed on the screen (FIG. 18), and have those manipulation processedby the processor, which, in addition to applying the manipulation, basedon the manipulation tool selected from the tool menu 1070, and based onthe use of that tool on the image, separates those manipulated portionsout, and displays them as the transformed portion of the image, as shownin the exemplary depiction of the hair image 1039 e of FIG. 19. Thisprocess may be repeated for multiple tonal and dimensional effects, andmay be applied in any order desired by the user, so for example, a useris able to switch between the manipulation tools for cutting and stylingthe hair, and the color level application and tone applications.According to a preferred embodiment, the image manipulations for thetransformation of the color and tone levels, may be stored, and aspecific formula may be selected or generated by the application, orother software configured to receive the application inputs, so that thedispensing machine 210 receives information to dispense a formula thatwhen applied on that user's hair will produce the desired effect. Forexample, the color and tone level may be reproduced on the user's hairto resemble the displayed manipulations corresponding to thoseselections. The user may require separate applications to produce thehair image having the desired color and effects. Preferably, theapplication software is configured with instructions to handle eacheffect separately, and to store one or more manipulations to the hair,for example, where those manipulations correspond to a formula that isto be applied to achieve the resultant effect. For example, eachseparation preferably is interpreted to correspond with a specificformula and sent to the machine to be dispensed. For example, atransformed hair image may have a first separation or associated formulathat provides a base color for the hair, a second separation thatprovides a second formula for the hair, which is a highlight, and athird separation that has associated with it a third formula for thehair, which is a lowlight. Each of the separation or separate formulasmay be stored in the client profile and be dispensed from the dispensingmachine. The dispensing of the separation formulations also arerecorded, thereby presenting the potential where multiple separationformula are utilized but not accounted for. The system also may linkdispensings from the dispensing apparatus 210 with the client profile,so that at the salon where treatments have been dispensed and applied,there is a record of the dispensings which may be stored and collectedfor usage in billing at the salon location. The dispensings and userprofile information may be used to generate an invoice for the customerat the salon location, based on the manipulations applied (e.g., a cut),and the products dispensed.

The system, method and device also provide for matching or coloring onepart of the user's hair separate from other parts. For example, a usermay use one's finger or other implement to work the display and addressthe area of the hair appearing on the display image that the userdesires to work on, such as, by coloring it, duplicating a color on thescreen, and altering the color palettes and grayscale to match anotherportion of the hair image or another image. One example is treatment ofhair regrowth. The application may be used to identify the regrowth areaof the hair and generate or derive one formula for the regrowth areaanother for the midshaft and ends, or alternately separate formulas eachfor the regrowth area, midshaft and ends. Another example is where theregrowth area is desired to match to the existing hair areas of themidshaft and ends. The system, method and apparatus or device 210 may beutilized to provide a matching formulation. This may be done asdescribed herein by imaging the person and applying the manipulations tothe hair. The hair image of the person would show the regrowth areacolor (e.g., gray) and the midshaft and ends (e.g., brown). However, thecolor manipulation that is done by utilizing the transformations andselections depicted on the screen displays is applied to the regrowtharea of the hair appearing in the hair image, and the midshaft and endsimage may be left unchanged. In this manner, the color of the regrowtharea may be manipulated on the screen so that the regrowth area of theimage matches the midshaft and/or ends image color appearing on thedisplay. The formula therefore may be generated to provide the resultanteffect, which in this example, is to color the gray hair regrowthportion of the hair to match the surrounding hair. The user of theapplication may make these transformations on the screen and thesoftware may process the manipulations and associate the selections(e.g., the color and/or effects selections) to provide a formulation tothe dispensing machine 210 to produce the product (e.g., colorant) that,when applied to the regrowth area of the individual's hair will producea hair color that matches the surrounding hair (e.g., midshaft and/orends). This is an example, but the color selection and manipulationtools provide for coloring one or more separate portions of the hairapart from other portions, so multiple formulations may be generated toachieve multiple effects. The image therefore provides fortransformation and saving of the image where portions have beenmanipulated differently than other portions. For example, there may be acut manipulation, a first color manipulation, a highlight manipulation,and so forth. The application provides for a user and salon personnel topreview the hair image transformation with the selections being applied.Before any manipulation of the hair color begins, the user may adjustthe image to an exact color match of the actual color of the client.This will balance light variations from location to location. Therefore,each image will be an exact representation of what is actually thereunaltered by existing light conditions.

In addition, for the shape, similar to the coloring process describedherein, the hair image is separated from the face portion of the image,and is manipulated through multiplication or subtraction of the actualimage. The user or stylist may make changes to arrive at a manipulatedhair depiction, and may save the changes. For example, the user or salonpersonnel may select between options and save multiple options to havethem display on a screen for comparison. FIG. 20 shows an alternateimage of a user upload photograph 1080 depicted on a display screen1081, with an options menu 1082 and techniques menu 1083. According toone embodiment, the options open a selection menu from whichmanipulations may be applied to the hair image 2039 depicted. Atechniques menu 1083 may be selected to provide a menu of techniquesthat may be applied to the hair image 2039 of the user to depict atechnique that may be applied to alter the appearance of the hair. Asecondary image window 1085 is shown to depict another image of the userwhich may provide a reference and which may include an alternatetreatment, style, color or other option, for comparison with thealternate image user upload photograph 1080. According to an alternateembodiment, the user upload image or photograph 1080 may be manipulatedas discussed herein in connection with the image 2010, however, theremay be limitations when using that photograph. FIG. 21 shows a firstimage window 1086 corresponding to image “A” and second image window1087 corresponding to image “B”. A different treatment option is appliedto each image so a comparison may be presented for preview and furtherselection. The image with the applications desired to manipulate thehair to a desired changed representation preferably is uploaded to theserver, such as, for example, the cc server 806 (FIG. 9) or otherserver, as represented in FIG. 22, so that the data may be saved, andthe salon and user may have access to the desired selections. The usermay receive services at a salon. Preferably, the user selections,whether by the client or individual user or a salon stylist user, may beevaluated with the cc system, which preferably includes a control systemto provide a formulation that may be used to produce the desiredtreatment or effect selected. The formulation may be a product that isdispensed by the dispensing apparatus 210.

According to preferred embodiments, the consumer or stylist using anapplication may derive and select a customized formulation. For example,referring to FIG. 21, the selection image screen 1085 may display OptionA showing one image of a color of the person's hair, and Option Bshowing another image of the person's hair. The user may desiresomething between the two shades displayed on each of the respectiveimages. In this example, the software is configured with the formulascorresponding with the formulations that correspond with the result onthe person for images A and B. The person may make a color selectionthat is between A and B. Preferably, the software is configured toprovide the option for a middle shade, and have that image appear on thescreen (as augmented or changed A or B, or as a new image C). Thedesired result and expected outcome may be accomplished through thecustomization of the software to dispense components that provide the inbetween shading. This option also is provided for the stylist, so thatthe stylist may manipulate and make selections of colors on the displayscreen and receive and view actual image depictions of the effects ofthe change on the image of the hair being styled. For example, theoptions provided for the stylist may include the ability to mix andselect colors, levels and shades, as well as experiment by applyingalternate developer selections to determine the resultant effect likelyon the hair of the individual. The software of the application programis configured with instructions to generate a display of the user's hairimage (the hair that is being manipulated) to show the manipulationeffect of the addition of the colors, amount of developers and otherchoices or selections. For example, the software may be configured todispense a portion of the component or, for example, such as ¼ oz. lessthan the formula. This may be done according to predeterminedinstructions provided for the software for colorants, developers, andother components. The changes to the existing formulas that the softwarehas stored may be implemented by the designation of a change amount, sothat when the processor receives an instruction for a selection, and thesoftware determines that the selection is not a formula from its knownestablished formulas, then the software ascertains the closest formulaand makes a corresponding alteration of a component of the knownestablished formula (which may be an addition or subtraction ofcomponent, or alteration of the component amount). An alteringinstruction may be provided so that software has an instructioncorresponding with the selection. The altering instruction may implementa change to a closest known formula, and thereby provide and save a newformula. The new formula may be dispensed from the dispensing apparatus210 based on instructions to operate the pumps to deliver the newformula that is a customized formula (e.g., between two correspondingformula image options). The control mechanism of the device 210 allowsthe stylist or salon personnel to create numerous custom colorformulations, based on generations that the stylist may customize usingthe stylist application on a computing device, such as a tablet.

According to a preferred embodiment, the client may be presented withselection options that include a dial, slide or level control thatcorresponds with the hair image 1039 a on the screen display. In thismanner, a range of colors, shades, intensity and/or tonal levels may beselected, displayed and viewed. Where a selection is made, the beautyproduct called for to produce the desired or target result on theperson's hair may implement dosing of beauty component products from thedispensing machine based on the selections made. For example, where theperson has selected a color between two shades, by adjusting the slideor dial levels, the information is processed and the dispensing machineis instructed to deliver amounts of component products that includes thetwo shades between which the person has made a selection in amounts toproduce a mid level, that is a level that is between the levels of eachof those shades. The formulation preferably is saved to the client'sprofile, which provides the ability for the client to receive customformulated product, whether at the salon or even for home use. Anotherexample is where a custom shampoo with a scalp treatment is provided.The shampoo may be formulated at the salon for the client. The levels ofcomponents used for the shampoo in this example are personal for thatclient, and while other clients could use that formulation, thepotential for tens to hundreds of different formulations may beaccommodated. The shampoo formulation in this example also is saved tothe client profile, and, the client therefore has the ability to orderreplacement shipments of the customized product from the salon networkoperator, through the retail purchasing system, which is associated toutilize the client profile and provide the desired product.

The application software preferably includes instructions to receive afirst input that identifies the condition of a person's existing hair.This first input may include one or more of user profile inputinformation and an image of the user that preferably is electronicallystored. The software also includes instructions to receive a secondinput of a target color, which preferably is done by generating on adisplay screen a selection of color options from which to choose adesired target color for transformation of the existing hair. Thesoftware also includes an instruction to recognize and receive aselection of a target color that a user makes from the selection ofcolor options. The information preferably is processed as the firstinput and the second input. The system preferably processes the firstand second inputs and generates a formula for a beauty product that isdesigned to produce the target color when applied to the person'sexisting hair. The production of the beauty product is carried outthrough the control mechanism which operates the respective pumps todeliver from the respective containers a dosage of one or more of therespective beauty product components in accordance with the formula. Thecomponents are delivered to the dispenser output.

The salon app or application also may include an education systemcomponent. According to a preferred embodiment, the app may guide thesalon personnel, such as, a technician, stylist or the like, through thenecessary steps and techniques to produce the desired result from theclient's starting hair condition. For example, where the client or salonpersonnel has selected a cut or style for the client hair, the appprovides a display that may depict step by step implementations of theuse of tools at locations of the hair, and how to use them, and providea sequential series of instructions to arrive at the desired end result.The salon may implement the salon app as a teaching system to instructsalon personnel in aspects of applying a hair treatment or othermanipulation, including application of a color, streak, effect, cut orstyle. The app also may implement the instructional system, so that if acustomer profile is saved, it includes information that may relate to ateaching database, so if the customer is traveling, the customer mayseek services of a different one of the network salons that use thesystem, and is able to receive the desired effect, which may be directedto salon personnel through the teaching system instructions.

FIG. 23 depicts a screen display 1088 for the application or app, andshows an example of a representation of an alert 1089, which isillustrated as a low product indication alert. FIG. 24 depicts a screendisplay 1090 for the application or app, depicting an example of arepresentation of a purchase screen showing options to book anappointment (at a salon). FIG. 25 depicts a screen display for theapplication or app, depicting an example of a representation of anappointment booking screen 1091. The appointment booking screen 1091also shows preferred locations for salons of the network salon operator,or those salons that use the app and are able to provide services andproducts associated with the app features and products, which preferablyinclude product dispensing requirements, such as dispensing a productfrom the dispensing apparatus 210.

The salon app preferably may take the information obtained for the userthrough the consultation performed using the salon app, and save theinformation to a server or other data storage component. Preferably, theinformation is transferred or otherwise communicated to the salon'sdispensing machine, such as, for example, the dispensing apparatus 210.Customized products are provided for the consumer, and preferably areproduced using the dispensing apparatus 210. Customized productselections, for example, may include custom formulated pigmentrefreshing shampoos and conditioners, prescriptive scalp therapyadditives and styling aids. Although the products may be formulated atthe salon, and applied by the technician, the app also saves the productinformation and selections so the customer/user may continue to makepurchases of and use the specially formulated customized products evenafter the user leaves the salon. According to one preferred embodiment,the customer is offered the opportunity to purchase the customformulated products, such as, custom hair coloring products, shampoos,conditioners and hair, skin and/or scalp treatments. As discussedherein, the consumer app preferably includes a listing of the products(e.g., such as custom formulations recommended by the app, or used atthe salon) that may be made available for purchase by the consumer. Thewarehouse distribution system, as discussed herein, preferably includesa server that receives or to which the consumer information iscommunicated. The consumer selections preferably may be processed at awarehouse location or a distribution location, which may, for example,be a location at which the custom formulation is prepared and dispensedinto a suitable container for shipment to the consumer.

The monitoring and/or sensing mechanisms described herein may be used tomonitor usage by the consumer of the products and generate reordersand/or reminders to reorder the products. According to one preferredembodiment, the frequency of use of a product that the consumer hasordered may be designated so that the consumer may receive automaticshipments corresponding with the time expected for the prior product tobe consumed or almost consumed. The user alternately may designate afrequency for order and shipment, e.g., such as monthly. The system alsomay be configured to provide reminders to users, for example, where auser has not designated a selection to automatically receive productshipments/reorders.

According to alternate embodiments, the monitoring and sensingmechanisms may include RFID tags that include information or encodedinformation that may be decoded (e.g., such as a bar code or numberseries). Information provided by the RFID tag may include the type ofproduct, date purchased, expiration date (where applicable) and otherinformation. The RFID tag also may be provided at a location on or inthe container to provide an indication of usage level or threshold levelof product. One preferred embodiment provides an RFID tag that senses alow level of product. The RFID tag may be interrogated to determine thepresence of inventory at a location where the RFID tag may be read, andpreferably, where the reader or interrogator may relay the informationthrough a communication link or network to a server for processing. Areader may be installed at the location where the inventory is kept,such as, on the salon premises. The reader may be configured to operatethrough a Wi-Fi or other communication signal, through signal generatingand receiving components (e.g., in connection with a transponder ordecoder). The components preferably are placed throughout the locationof the salon so as to sense the presence of inventory of beauty productcomponents (such as, for example, components that are used by thedispensing apparatus 210). A reorder or reminder generator may beconfigured to correlate with the salon detected inventory, and providesuitable reminders or automatic reordering of product as needed. Thereorders preferably are generated by the server and automatic reordersmay be produced at the dispensing location, such as the dispensingdistribution location, and shipped to the salon.

The shipping from the dispensing location also may ship product to theconsumer. According to a preferred embodiment, the consumer's usage ofproduct and reorders may be tracked and reminders issued based onhistoric usage. The consumer app preferably may be configured to receiveinformation about reorders or low product quantity, including forexample information delivered to the server, and the consumer app mayprovide a message or alert that the consumer is running low on theparticular product item.

The application is further configured to show information to the salon,including for example, personnel, such as owner and/or technician. Thesalon app may include point of sale checkout services, which take intoaccount the custom formulations and treatments applied (e.g., styling,cuts and coloring) and generate invoicing based on products used andservices provided. The salon app may further facilitate consumerinteraction by allowing the consumer to opt for current or futurepurchases of products, pre-book subsequent appointments, pre-reorderproducts, which also may be linked to or synchronized with the consumerapp to indicate to the consumer what products have been purchased andwhen it will be delivered, or the schedule for replenishment.

The salon app further is configured to collect, store and manipulatedata for consumers of that salon, as well as collect and store data thatmay be processed to provide salon-wide data for customers of the salonusing the system. The analytics preferably are provided as a feature ofthe app. The app preferably may be linked with a server that collects,stores and processes the information for each customer. The salontherefore may track within its own salon, or across a number of salons,information such as, which products are selling the most, what servicesare being demanded (low or high), which products are being used the mostand the least, as well as stylist blends that are popular or wellreceived. The app therefore may provide options, including featuredselections for the technician, as well as the customer, to provide thecurrent up to date (in real time or near real time) of trending styles,colors and products. The consumer and salon personnel therefore may havethe benefit of information immediately pertinent to options that may beprovided for a customer.

An alert for a consumer also may be generated when the consumer isgeographically proximate to the salon location. The app, for example,may be configured to issue a pop-up alert, such as a screen display ortext message, to tell the consumer to stop in the salon to check out anew product or for some other reason. The app also may generate messagesand alters from time to time. For example, the app may provide on thescreen a message “Style Alert! Brunettes are warm and spicy this fall”and “request a refreshing cinnamon spice color wash and treatment now”.The app message may be customized based on the input characteristics andproperties that the consumer has provided. For example, if theconsumer/user of the app has a particular hair color, and a treatmentapplies to that color, the consumer may receive a message pertaining tothat treatment. The app also may be configured to generate messages orseek feedback from a customer. For example, a solicitation message maybe provided to the consumer: “We miss you. How is your color?” (seekingconsumer feedback). The app also may be configured to display to theconsumer key product trends by region or culture. This, for example, maybe generated using the information collected and stored by the serverfor particular consumer types, regions or geographies, climates or otherproperty associated with a consumer.

In addition, the app may be configured to not only ship replacementproduct to the consumer, but also to refill and/or make available forpicked-up at the salon location, in addition to shipment by pre-orderingor reordering from an app. According to alternate embodiments, a callcenter may be provided for salon apps as well as consumer apps. Wherethe applications are used by a number of consumers and a number ofsalons or subscribing salons, the call center may serve all users,salons and consumers.

According to a preferred embodiment, the app may be configured with acomponent referred to as “The Professional Visual Studio”. The visualstudio component may evaluate the formulation data and record the mostrecognized formulas. It may then translate this information into a colortrend or trends and provide this information to the consumer by drivethese trends straight back to the consumer app.

According to a preferred embodiment, the app is configured withassociated information, such as videos, graphics or demonstrations.Salon professionals may be able to watch tips, trends and techniquesrelated to the formulas selected that appear below the chosen selectionin an options menu.

The invention provides associations between retail, E-tail and servicesales. The consumer using the app may receive a virtual consultation inthe home or other location remote from the actual salon location.According to one embodiment, the application programming interface (API)may include an application that is a private (API) that integrates witha POS system provided to a vendor so that products, including customformulated, recommended and selected products, may be provided to theconsumer. The POS vendor may be an approved vendor, and may be validatedthrough an approval procedure as a control of the system and proceduresin place.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention also provides a saloncloud store and a retail component. The cloud store may provide customformulations, make recommendations, and be associated with the customerapp. The client app, as discussed herein, may include loyalty programsfor the client based on salon visits and purchases. The customer apppreferably may be linked with or to social media sites of the customer,an individual salon, or the salon network or operator. A website portalalso may be provided to be linked with the usage of the apparatus 210,the customer app and salon app.

Referring to FIG. 27 an alternate embodiment of a dispensing apparatusis illustrated, showing a dispensing apparatus 910 configured with thedispensing mechanisms, such as the pumps generally referenced as “P”,lines (not shown) and container bags (generally referenced as “C”)located within the cabinet 911, and with dispensing nozzles provided todeliver components from the bags through the bottom of the upper cabinetenclosure 914 to a receptacle 913. The dispensing components preferablyare configured as discussed herein in connection with the pumps, linesand bags shown and described with the dispensing apparatus 210. Althoughnot shown, the control mechanism preferably resides within the cabinet911 (or may be remote therefrom). A screen display 920, preferably atouch screen, is provided on the cabinet front panel and may be used tocontrol the dispensing of product from the apparatus 910. The controlmechanism and screen display may operate as shown and described hereinin connection with the apparatus 210, and apps and applications shownand described in connection with displays, such as tablets.

Although not shown, a printer may be provided as part of, or inassociation with the dispensing apparatus shown and described herein,which print product information on a label that may be used to identifythe product that is dispensed. The label may include the date dispensed,location, personnel requesting it, customer and formulation.

While preferred embodiments of the apparatus or devices 10,210 aredescribed in connection with hair colorants, the dispensing apparatusmay be used for dispensing one or more shampoos, conditioners or otherproducts used in a wash area of a salon. For example, a first dispenser10,210 configured with containers to supply and dispense colorant, maybe provided in a first location, which may be where coloring is done,and a second dispenser 10,210 configured with shampoos and conditioners,may be provided where washing is done. The bags and deviceconfigurations for the wash area dispenser may be similar to theapparatus 10,210 as shown and described herein in connection with thehair colorant components.

A training system may be implemented in connection with the abovesystems or may be separately provided. The training system utilizes animage from a person and from software instructions may display thatimage along with preferred cutting instructional graphics to facilitateinstruction of the method of cutting required to achieve the desiredresult. The instruction may comprise an overlay of an image provided onthe display, and preferably a filtered translucent overlay, so that thedisplay captures the person to whom the treatment, here a salon cut, isbeing applied, and the filtered translucent overlay is displayedrelative to the location of the person and the image thereof. (See e.g.,FIGS. 18 and 19) For example, if the person desired to receive aparticular style, that cut may be instructed through the use of overlaylines and graphics which may appear on the display screen to directwhere the hair should be angled and where the cut should be made. Theimplementation may be used in conjunction with the dispenser 10 thedatabase and information provided, stored and collected thereby tointegrate the instructional method, or may be separately used. Accordingto preferred embodiments, the image is carried out by utilizing thepixel range and locations and using indications to overlay the pixels,where a filtered translucent overlay is provided. In some instances,where a background is utilized, the software may be programmed todistinguish pixels of hair, and its movement from other images andobjects.

According to an alternate embodiment, a continuous monitoring mechanismmay be implemented, so that once the cut is made to the actual physicalhair of the individual and the individual's hair has settled, thecomputer software is instructed to continually monitor and track thehair location, and to provide further instructions on the next step.This may be done based on the current image being read and processed, aswell as the steps already carried out. In this manner, the guiding of ahair stylist or technician may be accomplished with a continuousreference to the manipulations actually being made to the individual'sphysical hair.

While the invention has been described with reference to specificembodiments, the description is illustrative and is not to be construedas limiting the scope of the invention. Although the terms user andclient and individual are used, the app may be carried out by a user,and in some instances, the app may be carried out by salon personnel,such as, for example, a salon technician, where the user is the client.Where appropriate, the user may be the client, and in other instancesthe user may be a salon professional. The app may have feature sets thatare particular to the consumer or client user and may have limitationsand feature sets that are for use by the salon or professional user.References to salon technician may include others at the salon thatengage in or are capable of providing services that use the productdispensed or formulated with the apparatus disclosed herein, or provideservices on a person's hair, such as hair styling or cutting services.Although screen displays are shown in FIGS. 10-26, features anddisplayed contents, although not shown on one of the screens depicted,may be generated to appear on the display as discussed herein, includingfor example, in accordance with selection options and menus describedherein for making and storing manipulations to an image and generating aformula for dispensing. In addition, although the dispensing apparatus210 is shown with six beauty product components, in six bags, thedispensing apparatus according to the invention may be provided todispense different numbers of components. Accordingly, additional pumpsand lines may be added to handle and dispense additional components. Thecontrol mechanism and formulas are configurable for use with theadditional pumps and additional components. In addition, although bagsare shown supported on a frame of the dispensing apparatus with hooks insome embodiments, the apparatus may be constructed in an alternateconfiguration where, in place of the hooks, a shelf and/or slots areprovided for supporting the containers that contain the components. Inaddition, although the dispensing apparatus, method and system has beendiscussed and shown in accordance with preferred embodiments, fordispensing of hair dye components, the dispensing apparatus alternatelymay be configured to dispense shampoo, lotions and/or creams, that maybe custom formulated for user, and the system may implement, as part ofthe application software, recommendations for dispensing formulas basedon a user profile, which may include user skin, scalp or other profileinformation regarding the formulation of custom dispensed shampoos'conditioners, lotions and creams. Accordingly, a dispensing apparatusmay be constructed to accommodate a larger number of pumps, componentbags and associated lines, so that expansion may be accomplished usingthe same dispensing apparatus. Further, the control mechanism foroperating the pumps that dispense the components may be linked with oneor more remote servers to receive formulations and dispensinginstructions, or alternatively, the control mechanism may includesoftware that is configured with instructions to operate the dispensingapparatus to deliver a product, even where the dispensing apparatus isnot connected to a remote server. The control mechanism may downloadinformation, including formulation information. In addition, althoughsome features are mentioned in connection with the dispensing apparatus10, those features may be utilized in connection with the dispensingapparatus 210. References herein to “cc” and “cc system” and “CCN” referto “ColorCulture” which is a trademark of the Colorculture Network, LLC.The method, system and device also provide for on demand production ofadditional product, as needed. For example, at any time throughout theclient visit, in the event that there is an immediate need foradditional amount of product (e.g., of product already dispensed forthat client), the formula associated with the client profile may berecalled and an additional amount of the formulation dispensed.Furthermore, even after a dispensing has been made, also at any timethroughout the client's visit in the salon, alterations to theformulations may be made by retrieving the client profile on a computingdevice (e.g., such as for example, the salon tablet running the app, orthe control mechanism of the dispensing apparatus), making theappropriate change, and having the dispensing apparatus 210 produce analtered formula product.

The present system, device and method integrates the roles for mutualbenefit for the manufacturer, salon owners, stylists and consumersthrough the implementation thereof. The manufacturer is able to save onmarketing, sales, workforce, R&D, packaging, spoilage and diversion, forexample. The salon owner may saves in waste and theft, and in addition,may build a client stream through the utilization and implementation ofthe app, which, according to some embodiments, facilitates driving oftraffic to the destination then automatically establishes a refillprotocol and reminds the consumer to set up future appointments formaintenance. The system, device and method automate tasks to provide aproduct replenishment procedure for the dispensing devices or apparatusand for retail sale to deliver to the consumer, preferably, in aseamless manner and, according to some options that may be implemented,without having to be prompted. The system, method and device furtherbenefits the salon owner by minimizing efforts to deal with waste, theftexpired product or unskilled, unmotivated staff that otherwise may notprovide salon clients with a consistent experience. The present method,system and device provide a free-standing retail/sales outlet for amanufacturer or business owner that desires to enter the industry, suchas, for example, the salon industry. The system, method and devicepreferably guides stylists through steps of the client experience,while, at the same time, permits creativity as a result of thecustomization of beauty products, such as customized hair coloring thatmay be formulated, controlled and selected. The present method, systemand device further facilitate promotion of a salon and/or stylist byfeeding clientele through the app. The stylist and customer may beguided through the most complete consultation possible. Stylists mayutilize the app in conjunction with the device and system to receive andimplement product and technique options and with the allowance andability to adjust according to a desired result. Once established, thedesired results preferably are stored and processed to dispense from thedispensing device the appropriate amount of product for the specifiedservice. When services are completed, the app automatically recommendsspecific and personalized home care for the client based on frequency ofvisits to the salon as well as hair condition, age, exposure to theelements and other factors. This latter step and app feature is likelyto generate increased sales for the salon, add a level of predictable,controlled consistency to the client experience, and encourage as wellas establish a pattern of service and sales behavior in the consumer.The system, method and device provide a number of benefits for theconsumer. First, the consumer is able to see actual haircolors andstyles on their own actual hair. The system, method and device providefor the consumer or client to be presented with a manipulation appliedto that individuals' own hair image. The present system, method anddevices provide the consumer with a true to life simulation based on thestylist consultation in the salon, which depicts the natural image lookof the consumer, as opposed to unnatural looking, pasted over images.The system, method and device further facilitate driving the consumer tothe salon, through the implementation of some of the aforementionedselection and imaging features on an application or app for smartphones,(e.g., such as iPhones and Androids), tablets and other computingdevices, that take the consumer through a similar but lesssophisticated, or scaled down version to the salon version of theapplication. FIG. 26 depicts an exemplary screen and menu options for anapp that may be used on a smartphone to implement the system and methodin conjunction with the dispensing devices discussed and shown herein.According to some embodiments, once scheduled, the data stored in theconsumer app is automatically downloaded, or available for automaticdownload, to the salon (e.g., the salon server or salon network serveror other remote server) where the appointment is scheduled and saved forthe appointment consultation, saving the consumer time and addingcritical personal data to benefit the consultation process. Oncecompleted, all relevant data like formulas, techniques, before and afterimages and sales data is pushed back up to the salon network database(and in some cases locally at the salon) and processed for the nextsalon visit at any location worldwide (in a participating or subscribersalon of the salon network). This present method, system and device,when implemented preferably increase consumer confidence, take the fearout of trying something new, recommend related products to the consumerbased on a very specific and individual need and allow the consumer tofreely travel from salon to salon without fear of losing formulas. Inaddition, the device and system may be configured to dispense productcomponents from different manufacturers. For example, one manufacturer'sproduct components may be utilized and the software configured toprovide formulas for dispensing those components. Alternative formulasand software may be provided and utilized for components from adifferent manufacturer. According to some embodiments, a salon networkutilizes a particular manufacturer's hair color product (or otherproducts) and may have a first network of salons that utilize one typeof manufacturer or brand product, and a second network of salons thatuse another manufacturer's product or brand. Various modifications andchanges may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention described herein and as defined by theappended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for dispensing a beauty product formedfrom a plurality of beauty product components, the system comprising: a)a frame; b) a dispenser supported on said frame having at least onedispensing outlet; c) a plurality of beauty product components, each ofthe said beauty product components being contained in a respectivecontainer; d) said dispenser including a plurality of lines, each lineof said plurality of lines having a passageway therethrough, each saidline communicatively linking one of said plurality of said containerswith said dispensing outlet; e) said dispenser including a controlmechanism and a pumping mechanism; f) wherein said pumping mechanismalternates between compression and relaxation of a respective line ofsaid plurality of lines to regulate the delivery of said plurality ofbeauty product components from their respective containers; g) whereinsaid control mechanism regulates the operation of said pumping mechanismto deliver dosages of a plurality of said respective beauty productcomponents to said dispensing outlet to provide a beauty product.
 2. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein said pumping mechanism when in compressionwith said line sealingly closes the passageway of said line.
 3. Thesystem of claim 2, wherein said pumping mechanism comprises a pluralityof peristaltic pumps, wherein each line is associated with at least onepump, and wherein said control mechanism receives instructions toproduce a beauty product by regulating the operation of said respectiveplurality of peristaltic pumps to deliver dosages of a plurality ofbeauty product components from the said respective containers containingthe respective beauty product components.
 4. The system of claim 3,wherein said beauty product components each have viscosities of from 1to 50 cP, wherein the beauty product is a hair dye, and wherein at leastmore than one of said plurality of beauty product components is acomponent of said hair dye.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein saidbeauty product components each have a viscosity from 20 to 50 cP.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein said container containing said beauty productcomponent is sealingly connected to a first end of said line to form acomponent unit, and wherein said component unit is installed on saidpumping mechanism.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein said wherein anozzle is sealingly connected to a second end of said line, and whereinsaid container, said line and said nozzle form said component unit. 8.The system of claim 1, wherein sensing and monitoring means is providedto sense an amount of said beauty component present within saidcontainer.
 9. The system of claim 1, further including sensing andmonitoring means for sensing and monitoring the usage of said beautyproduct component in each said container and providing an outputcorresponding to a condition when the amount of said beauty productcomponent in a said container reaches a low level, said outputcomprising at least one of an instruction to check the supply on hand ofthe beauty product component whose condition was sensed to be at a lowlevel and an instruction for reordering the beauty product componentwhose condition was sensed to be at a low level.
 10. The system of claim8, wherein said sensing and monitoring means comprises an RFID tagprovided on each one of said respective containers, and a readerdisposed at a reading distance to interrogate said RFID tag, whereinsaid RFID tags are provided with identification data that identifieseach beauty product component container independent of any other beautyproduct component container, wherein the amount of component dispensedfrom said component container in regard to its respective RFIDidentification data is monitored and recorded, and wherein said readercommunicates said RFID identification data of each said componentcontainer to identify each said component container position withrespect to a respective pump, said dispensing amount information andsaid RFID identification data being communicated to a computingcomponent for processing said information to determine the level ofbeauty product component in said container; and wherein said containerRFID identification data includes the identification of the beautyproduct component in said component container, wherein said componentcontainer is associated with a pump of said pumping mechanism byassociating said component container and said beauty product componentcontained in said component container, and wherein said pump isdesignated to deliver dosages of said associated component containerbased on the identified content of said component container.
 11. Thesystem of claim 10, wherein at least said frame and said dispenser arelocated in a first location; wherein, when a determination of a level ofbeauty product component in a container corresponds with a low level, anoutput is generated, wherein said output comprises at least one of aninstruction to check the supply on hand and an instruction forreordering the component; wherein said output instruction to check thesupply on hand comprises checking the presence at the first location forone or more additional containers that contain the same beauty productcomponent as the said container determined by said sensing andmonitoring means to have a low level of beauty component therein,wherein checking the presence at said first location is done by issuinga signal to interrogate RFID data information to determine the presenceof an inventory consisting of one or more component containerscontaining the same beauty product component as the container determinedto have a low level based on a response from an RFID tag provided onsaid one or more component containers containing the same beauty productcomponent as the container determined to have a low level of beautycomponent therein.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein said pumpmechanism comprises a plurality of pumps for delivering said haircolorant components from said respective plurality of containers,wherein a respective one of said pumps is provided for each respectivesaid beauty product component of said respective plurality ofcontainers.
 13. The system of claim 1, including an inventory controlsystem associated with each said respective container to provide analert based on the actual or a perceived content level of saidrespective beauty product component in said container, the inventorycontrol system including an interrogator configured to generate a signaland including a plurality of RFID tags, each one of said plurality ofRFID tags respectively associated with one of said plurality ofcontainers; wherein each said RFID tag includes RFID information datathat identifies the product in the container.
 14. The system of claim13, wherein said inventory control system includes a communication linkbetween said dispenser and a remote computing component through whichsupplies may be ordered; and wherein said RFID information includestemperature information, and wherein said RFID tag includes atemperature sensing element.
 15. The system of claim 1, wherein saidsystem includes software configured with instructions to receive a firstinput that identifies the condition of a person's existing hair, toreceive a second input of a target color by displaying a selection ofcolor options from which to select the desired target color for theexisting hair and receiving a selection of said target color from saidselection of color options, and to process the information received asthe first input and the second input, said software being configuredwith instructions to generate a formula for said beauty product thatproduces the target color when applied to the person's existing hair,said control mechanism operating said plurality of pumps to deliver fromsaid respective containers a dosage of a said respective beauty productcomponent in accordance with said formula, wherein said beauty productformed from a plurality of said beauty product components is dispensedfrom said output of said dispenser.
 16. The system of claim 1, furtherincluding a selection system for selecting a color to apply to the hairof a person, the selection system including software, a processor and atleast one display on which is generated a plurality of hair colors fromwhich to choose; said selection system receiving an image of a personthat includes at least the person's hair and face, said selection systemproviding on said display an image of the person's face and person'shair, wherein said person's image is transformed on said display basedon a selected color to display that selected color on said hair image ofsaid person independently of the image of the person's face, the systemincluding a selection option that is displayed on said display forselecting a target color; said selection system software includinginstructions to receive a first input that identifies the condition of aperson's existing hair, to receive a second input of said target colorby displaying a selection of color options from which to select thedesired target color for the existing hair and receiving a selection ofsaid target color from said selection of color options, to process theinformation received as the first input and the second input, saidprocessing of said information including generating a formula for saidbeauty product that produces the target color when applied to theperson's existing hair; and wherein said selection system is linked forcommunication with said control mechanism to communicate said generatedformula to said control mechanism; wherein said image of said person'sface and hair appear as an image with a green screen background; andwherein said image of said person's hair appears as an image depictingsaid hair surrounded by a green screen apart from an image of theperson; wherein transformation of said hair image of said persontransforms the depicted hair image that was surrounded by the greenscreen independently of the image of the person's face.
 17. The systemof claim 16, including a manipulation tool for manipulating on saiddisplay the electronic image of said hair appearing on said display toprovide a responsive representation of a cut to be displayed, whereinsaid cut is displayed on said hair image on said display to simulate theuse of a tool, wherein a depiction of a representative transformation tosaid hair image on said display is carried out by allowing themanipulation of the user's depicted hair to manipulate remove as much oras little hair as desired, and in locations desired, and wherein thetransformation to said hair image depicted on the display is displayedto correspond with the use of said simulated tool by depicting theprogression of said transformation being carried out on the person'shair image depicted on the display.
 18. The system of claim 17, whereinsaid target color is selected and wherein said responsive representationof said cut is selected, and wherein said control mechanism regulatessaid dispenser to dispense a beauty product that is a hair dye havingsaid generated formula.
 19. The system of claim 1, including a display,a capturing mechanism wherein an image of an individual who is toreceive a haircut is captured and electronically stored with thecapturing mechanism, the image including the individual's face and theindividual's hair, wherein said image portion that includes saidindividual's hair is stored as a separate image; processing the storedimage of the individual to locate the individual's hair; suggestingthrough a filtered translucent overlay that contains at least onegraphic, a step to be carried out on the hair of the individual totransform the hair of the individual on said image; providinginstructions through a series of graphic depictions on a displaycorresponding to depicted steps for transforming the hair of theindividual based on a transformed image of the individual's hairappearing on the display.
 20. A system for dispensing a beauty productformed from a plurality of beauty product components, the systemcomprising: a) a frame; b) a dispenser supported on said frame having atleast one dispensing outlet, the dispenser being located at a firstlocation; c) a plurality of beauty product components, each of the saidbeauty product components being contained in a respective container bagand each container bag being supported on said frame; d) said dispenserincluding a plurality of lines, each line having a passagewaytherethrough and communicatively linking one of said respectiveplurality of container bags with said at least one dispensing outlet; e)said dispenser including a control mechanism; f) said dispenserincluding a pumping mechanism; g) said pumping mechanism alternatingbetween compression and relaxation of a respective line of the saidplurality of lines to regulate the delivery of said plurality of beautyproduct components from their respective container bags; h) said controlmechanism comprising a programmable logic controller and softwareconfigured with instructions to operate the pumping mechanism to delivera desired dosage of at least a plurality of said beauty productcomponents from their respective container bags; i) said pumpingmechanism when in compression with said line sealingly closes thepassageway of said line; j) wherein said pumping mechanism comprises aplurality of peristaltic pumps, wherein each said line is associatedwith at least one of said peristaltic pumps, each pump being disposedalong its respectively associated line between and being located betweenits respectively associated container bag and said dispensing outlet; k)wherein said control mechanism receives an instruction to produce abeauty product, wherein said control mechanism produces a beauty productby regulating the operation of said respective plurality of peristalticpumps to deliver dosages of a plurality of beauty product componentsfrom their said respective container bags that contain the respectivebeauty product components; l) wherein said beauty product componentseach have viscosities of from 1 to 50 cP; m) a monitoring mechanismincluding an RFID tag carried on each of the said beauty productcomponent container bags and an RFID reader disposed at a readingdistance relative to said frame supported bags and being configured tocommunicate with a communication component; n) at least one storagecomponent for storing information; o) a communication componentconfigured to communicate information from said reader to said storagecomponent corresponding to each of said RFID tags, wherein theinformation stored on said storage component is available to a hardwareprocessor; p) a hardware processor; q) software configured withinstructions to instruct the hardware processor to process saidcommunicated information and, when said processed informationcorresponds to a condition identifying one or more of said beautyproduct components in a said container reaching a low level, saidprocessor is instructed to generate an output; wherein said outputcomprises at least one of an instruction to check the supply on hand andan instruction to ship one or more beauty component productscorresponding to the said one or more beauty product components whosecondition is identified as reaching a low level; r) wherein dosageamounts of at least some of said plurality of beauty product componentsare delivered with said respectively associated pumps from saidrespective bags in which said components are contained to a receptacle,said dosage amounts when delivered to said receptacle forming a beautyproduct that is a hair dye; s) a selection system for selecting a colorto apply to the hair of a person, the selection system includingsoftware, a processor and at least one display on which is generated aplurality of hair colors from which to choose; said selection systemreceiving an image of a person that includes at least the person's hairand face, said selection system providing on said display an image ofthe person's face and person's hair, wherein said person's image istransformed on said display based on a selected color to display thatselected color on said hair image of said person independently of theimage of the person's face, the system including a selection option thatis displayed on said display for selecting a target color; saidselection system software including instructions to receive a firstinput that identifies the condition of a person's existing hair, toreceive a second input of said target color by displaying a selection ofcolor options from which to select the desired target color for theexisting hair and receiving a selection of said target color from saidselection of color options, to process the information received as thefirst input and the second input, said processing of said informationincluding generating a formula for said beauty product that produces thetarget color when applied to the person's existing hair; t) wherein saidselection system is linked for communication with said control mechanismto communicate said generated formula to said control mechanism; u)wherein said control mechanism operates said plurality of pumps todeliver from at least some of said respective plurality of containerbags dosages of at least some of said respective beauty productcomponents in accordance with said formula, wherein said dosages aredelivered to said dispensing outlet to produce a beauty product formedfrom the at least some of the plurality of said beauty productcomponents; v) wherein said control mechanism includes a cleaningfeature, wherein the time between a dispensing of a beauty productcomponent from its respective container bag is recorded, and whereinwhen said recorded time between dispensings of said beauty productcomponent exceeds a threshold time, the control mechanism operates therespectively associated pump for that beauty product component todeliver through said respectively associated line an amount of saidrespective beauty product component so that a fresh supply of componentis present at the nozzle for subsequent dispensings of that respectivebeauty product component; w) wherein said monitoring mechanism checksfor the presence at said first location for one or more additionalcontainers that contain the same beauty product component as the saidcontainer determined to have a low level of said beauty productcomponent therein, wherein checking the presence at said first locationcomprises interrogating for the presence of one or more container bagscontaining the same beauty product component as the container bagdetermined to have a low level, based on a response from an RFID tagprovided on said one or more component containers containing the samecomponent as the container determined to have a low level; x) whereineach said line has a first end and a second end; y) wherein saiddispensing outlet comprises a plurality of nozzles, wherein each nozzleis associated with a respective one of said lines; z) wherein each saidcontainer bag is sealingly connected to said first end of a respectiveone of said lines, and wherein each said nozzle is sealingly connectedto said second end of said respective one of said lines, and whereinsaid sealingly connected bag, line and nozzle form a component unit; aa)wherein said component unit is installable on said device; and bb)wherein said line of said component unit is installable on a respectiveone of said plurality of peristaltic pumps of said pumping mechanism.